Castilleja pruinosa

Common Names

Frosted Indian Paintbrush, Frosted Paintbrush

Summary

Frosted Indian paintbrush is an upright perennial hemiparasitic herb native to California and Oregon in western North America. It grows to about 30–80 cm tall, with densely hairy gray-green stems and lance-shaped leaves up to 8 cm long, giving a frosted appearance. The inflorescence bears bright red to orange-red bracts; flowers are greenish with reddish margins and measure about 2–3 cm long.

Propagation relies on seed with light-requiring germination and direct sowing on soil surface; harvest seeds after flowers fade and dry on the plant. Division is possible, with replanting beside a compatible host grass; best done in early spring or late fall when dormant. Cultivation favors dry intervals and well-drained, low-nutrient substrates, with avoidance of over-watering to prevent root issues. In landscapes, it attracts pollinators and butterflies and is noted as temperamental in home gardens.

Lifecycle

Perennial

Height

1-2.5 feet

Sunlight Requirements

Ideally full sun.

Soil Type

Serpentine/ ultramafic soils, well-drained and low in fertility.

Soil Drainage

Well-drained soil

Bloom Color

Red to orange-red, sometimes yellow or salmon.

Bloom Time

Spring to Summer

Foliage Color

Gray-green

Fall Foliage Color

Green, Red, Orange

Growth Rate

Slow

Seasons of Interest

Spring and Summer

Propagation Methods

Seeds and Division

Attracts Wildlife

Attracts butterflies and other pollinators