Scarlet Indian Paintbrush
Castilleja coccinea
Scarlet Indian Paintbrush is a striking biennial wildflower with vivid scarlet-tipped bracts that resemble an artist's brush dipped in paint. This hemiparasitic plant symbolizes passion, creativity, and the vibrant spirit of North American prairies.
Orobanchaceae (Broomrape family); formerly Scrophulariaceae
Late spring to early summer (May-July)
Symbolism & Meanings
Key Meanings
Perfect For
Color Meanings
Similar flowers: verticordia grandiss and marigold (tagetes)s also share similar meanings.
Cultural Significance
The scarlet Indian Paintbrush holds deep cultural significance as the state flower of Wyoming and a beloved symbol of western and prairie landscapes. Native American legend tells of a young brave who tried to paint a sunset but failed until the Great Spirit gave him brushes dipped in vivid colors. The plant's parasitic nature represents interconnectedness in ecosystems, while its striking appearance symbolizes nature's artistry. Conservation efforts highlight its endangered status in many eastern states, making it a symbol of prairie preservation.Shop Our Floral Collection
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Physical Characteristics
Natural Habitat
Growing Guide
Sunlight
Full sun to partial shade; best flowering in full sun
Water
Moderate moisture; tolerates some drought once established
Soil
Medium moisture, Well-drained, Sandy, Rocky, Poor to moderately fertile
Expert Growing Tips
Hemiparasitic; attaches to roots of host plants (grasses, sagebrush) for nutrients
Difficult to transplant; must be grown from seed where intended to grow
Requires cold stratification (60 days) for germination
Sow in fall for spring germination; forms basal rosette first year, flowers second year
Best established with host plants like grasses already present
Seeds commercially available but challenging to establish
Listed as endangered or extinct in several eastern states
Uses & Benefits
Ornamental Uses
- Wildflower meadows and prairie restorations
- Native plant gardens
- Rock gardens
- Naturalized landscapes
- Wildlife and pollinator gardens
Traditional Uses
- Native Americans used weak flower tea for rheumatism and as a tonic
- Historically used in traditional medicine, though use not recommended today
Disclaimer: Information provided is for educational purposes only. Consult healthcare professionals before using any plant medicinally.
Further Reading
Frequently Asked Questions about the Scarlet Indian Paintbrush
Why is Indian paintbrush hard to grow?
Indian paintbrush is hemiparasitic, meaning it attaches to host plant roots for nutrients. It cannot be transplanted successfully and must be grown from seed with appropriate host plants already present, making cultivation challenging.
What is the host plant for Indian paintbrush?
Indian paintbrush commonly parasitizes grasses such as little bluestem, sagebrush, and various other herbaceous and woody plants. The host relationship increases the paintbrush's growth by up to 40 times.
Is Indian paintbrush endangered?
Scarlet Indian paintbrush is endangered in several states including New York, Connecticut, and Maryland. It is considered extinct in Maine, New Hampshire, Massachusetts, Delaware, and Louisiana.
Why are they called Indian paintbrush?
The common name comes from the appearance of the scarlet-tipped bracts, which look like an artist's paintbrush that has been dipped in bright red or orange paint.
Available Colors
Quick Facts
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Marigold (Tagetes)
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Tigridia pavonia (and other spp.)
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