Texas Paintbrush
Castilleja indivisa (Scrophulariaceae)
An upright, hairy annual, perennial or biennial herb native to Texas with single erect stems and a slender taproot. The terminal red-orange flower is a misconception. Actually the flower is tiny, creamy white to pale yellow, encircled by the red-orange leaf-like bracts. The seeds are very small and should be sown directly on the soil surface. Adapted to well-drained areas in full sun. Not the easiest variety to cultivate, but the lure of such magnificent flowers certainly compensates for the effort.
Average planting success with this species: 40%
Height: 8-24 inches
Germination: 30-120 days
Optimum soil temperature for germination: 55-65F
Sowing depth: surface sow
Blooming period: April-June
Average seeds per pound: 5,100,000
Seeding rate: 1/4 lb per acre
Suggested use: Gardens, roadsides, open meadows, mixtures
Miscellaneous: Creates ribbons of color for miles along Texas highways in the spring. Does not transplant well. Requires a period of time to become established.
