Exserted indian paintbrush (Castilleja exserta)

Exserted indian paintbrush

Also known as: Exerted indian paintbrush, Owlclover indian paintbrush

The large-bodied flowers and small leaves of the exserted indian paintbrush are made possible through the plant's semi-parasitic nature. It sprouts underground structures that attach to other plants' roots to skim off some of the water and nutrients. The exserted indian paintbrush is critical to the endangered bay checkerspot butterfly.

Scientific classification

Species

Exserted indian paintbrush (Castilleja exserta)

Mints plantains olives and allies

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Annual

Lifespan

Herb

Plant Type

Spring, Winter

Bloom Time

10 cm to 46 cm

Plant Height

30 cm

Spread

6 mm to 2.5 cm

Flower Size

Images of Exserted indian paintbrush

Distribution of Exserted indian paintbrush

Distribution Map

Exserted indian paintbrush, or Castilleja exserta, is a plant primarily native to North America, particularly flourishing in regions of a major southwestern area. While it originates in these terrains, the plant has not been extensively introduced or naturalized in other global regions. The summary reflects the plant's relative confinement to its native range.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

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Habitat

Fields, deserts, open, wooded areas

Hemisphere Trend Curve

Northern

Sorthern

Care Guide for Exserted indian paintbrush

Every week

Water

Full sun

Sunlight

20 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Water: Exserted indian paintbrush thrives in arid environments, showcasing exceptional drought tolerance. It requires weekly watering without over-saturation and prefers well-draining soil to mimic its natural habitat. Primarily cultivated outdoors, exserted indian paintbrush is resilient and low-maintenance, ensuring optimal moisture without waterlogging.

Fertilize: For optimal care of exserted indian paintbrush, use a balanced fertilizer with high nitrogen sparingly in spring, every 4-6 weeks during growth. Avoid over-fertilization, which can damage exserted indian paintbrush. Follow label guidelines to maintain exserted indian paintbrush's health and support blooming without hindering its natural hardiness.

Pruning: Exserted indian paintbrush benefits from early to late spring pruning, promoting dense growth and more blooms. Remove dead or diseased stems to maintain shape, enhancing air circulation and reducing disease risk. Clean, sharp tools should always be used to prevent infections and stimulate vibrant flower production.

Propagation: Exserted indian paintbrush propagates effectively by sowing healthy seeds from mature plants in a well-draining soil mix. Seeds must be surface-sown for light exposure, with consistently moist soil for optimal growth. With care, exserted indian paintbrush will sprout and flourish as vibrant garden additions.

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