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Herbaceous Perennial

Castilleja miniata

giant red Indian paintbrush

A semi-parasitic, herbaceous perennial to 25cmwith upright stems carrying narrow leaves and, in summer, terminal clusters of red-orange bracts, apple green at the base, with red flowers

Synonyms
Castilleja crista-galli
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Size
Ultimate height
0.1–0.5 metres
Time to ultimate height
2–5 years
Ultimate spread
0.1–0.5 metres
Growing conditions
Chalk
Loam
Sand
Moisture
Moist but well–drained
pH
Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
Colour & scent
StemFlowerFoliageFruit
Spring Green Purple
Summer Red Orange Green Green Purple
Autumn Green Purple
Winter
Position
  • Full sun
Aspect

West–facing or South–facing

Exposure
Sheltered
Hardiness
H4
Botanical details
Family
Orobanchaceae
Native to GB / Ireland
No
Foliage
Deciduous
Habit
Clump forming
Genus

Castilleja can be annual or perennial herbaceous plants with bright red leaf-like bracts surrounding white to green flowers in early to mid-spring.

Name status

Correct

Plant range
N America

How to grow

Cultivation

Grow in full sun in moist but well-drained soil. Can also be grown successfully in pots; a host plant is not essential

Propagation

Propagate by seed

Suggested planting locations and garden types
  • City and courtyard gardens
  • Cottage and informal garden
  • Patio and container plants
  • Flower borders and beds
Pruning

No pruning required

Pests

Generally pest-free

Diseases

Generally disease-free

Get involved

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