Harsh Paintbrush (Castilleja hispida)

Harsh paintbrush is a stunning wildflower that prefers drier areas than its relative, giant red paintbrush. Clusters of erect, bristly stems with lance-shaped leaves are topped with bright orange to red leafy bracts, looking as if they've been dipped in paint. Harsh paintbrush is adored by hummingbirds, and is a larval host plant for many species of native butterflies and moths. While paintbrushes are a beautiful addition to perennial gardens, they are known to be difficult to cultivate and establish in the garden. They are hemiparasitic, meaning that while they do photosynthesize, they also form networks with other nearby plant species, extracting nutrients through the roots of their host. To increase chances of success, it is recommended to plant multiple paintbrush plants along with a host. Possible host plants include native grasses, lupines, yarrow, and woolly sunflower.

Sun Exposure: Full sun to part shade
Soil & Moisture: Mesic to dry, well-drained soil
Mature Size: 8"-24" tall
Bloom Time: Early summer
Edible: No
Wildlife Value: Attracts pollinators such as hummingbirds and butterflies. Host plant for many native species of butterflies and moths.
Native Range & Habitat: Open areas, grassy slopes, dry meadows, and forest edges from low to middle elevations. Ranges from British Columbia and Alberta into the northwestern United States.
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