Indian Paintbrush Castilleja chromosa

A perennial that grows to one foot tall, with purple-green leaves and brilliant scarlet to crimson flowers that are among the first of the season to attract hummingbirds. Native in foothill communities throughout the state. Drought tolerant, requiring minimal or no water and no fertilizer. Attaches to the roots of other plants to obtain water, and thus grows much better when planted with a companion shrub, such as sagebrush. Sometimes flowers in the first growing season. Plant in late fall for spring emergence, or stratify for spring planting.

Flowers April-May.

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