Family: Orobanchaceae
Author: Benth.
Bibliography: A.P.de Candolle, Prodr. 10: 532 (1846)
Year: 1846
Status: accepted
Rank: species
Genus: Castilleja
Vegetable: False
Observations: W. & WC. U.S.A.
Description
The Wyoming paintbrush, known scientifically as Castilleja linariifolia, is a striking and notable member of the Orobanchaceae family. Its botanical characteristics were first examined and detailed by Bentham in A.P.de Candolle’s Prodr. 10: 532 in 1846.
This perennial herb is native to the western and west-central regions of the United States, where it typically adorns landscapes with its vibrant, colorful presence. The plant is renowned for its brilliant inflorescence, showcasing a spectrum of fiery red to orange hues, which are primarily bracts, modified leaves that surround the actual flowers. These vivid colors are not just for show; they play a crucial role in pollination by attracting various pollinators, particularly hummingbirds and bees.
The foliage of the Wyoming paintbrush is equally distinctive, with narrow, linear leaves that resemble those of flax, giving rise to its scientific epithet, linariifolia. These leaves are often covered in fine hairs, adding to the plant’s unique texture.
Ecologically, Castilleja linariifolia occupies diverse habitats ranging from sagebrush deserts to mountainous alpine meadows, demonstrating remarkable adaptability. It often thrives in well-drained soils and can be found at varying elevations, from lowlands to high altitudes.
A notable feature of this species is its hemiparasitic nature. The Wyoming paintbrush forms parasitic relationships with the roots of other plants, which allows it to tap into additional water and nutrient sources. This adaptation not only supports its growth in challenging environments but also influences its ecological interactions.
The Wyoming paintbrush holds cultural significance as well, especially among Native American tribes who have historically used the plant for both medicinal and ceremonial purposes.
In summary, the Wyoming paintbrush (Castilleja linariifolia) is a fascinating plant that dazzles with its vivid bracts, adapts across a wide range of habitats, and engages in unique ecological interactions through its hemiparasitic lifestyle. This plant not only enhances the biodiversity of its native regions but also contributes to the rich tapestry of botanical heritage in Western and West-Central USA.
Common Names
Eng: wyoming indian paintbrush, wyoming paintbrush
En: Wyoming paintbrush, Wyoming Indian paintbrush, Narrow leaved Indian paintbrush
: Wyoming indian paintbrush
Synonyms
- Castilleja affinis var. linariifolia ((Benth.) Zeile)
- Castilleja arcuata (Rydb.)
- Castilleja salticola (Eastw.)
- Castilleja linariifolia f. omnipubescens (Pennell)
- Castilleja linariifolia var. filiformis (Daniels)
- Castilleja linearis (Rydb.)
- Castilleja howellii (Eastw.)
- Castilleja linariifolia f. rosea (Cockerell)
- Castilleja fulgens (Nutt. ex A.Gray)
- Castilleja candens (Durand & Hilg.)
- Castilleja trainii (Edwin)
- Castilleja linariifolia var. omnipubescens ((Pennell) Clokey)
Distribution
- Arizona (native)
- California (native)
- Colorado (native)
- Idaho (native)
- Montana (native)
- Nevada (native)
- New Mexico (native)
- Oregon (native)
- Utah (native)
- Wyoming (native)
Additional Images
Flower
Taken Jun 7, 2000 by EOL − Charles Webber (cc-by-nc-sa)
Taken Feb 18, 2001 by EOL − Robert Potts (cc-by-nc-sa)
Taken Jul 2, 2020 by Mykala Spangler (cc-by-sa)
Taken May 26, 2021 by Michelle Boyer (cc-by-sa)
Taken Jul 13, 2021 by Bodie Spinner (cc-by-sa)
Habit
Taken Feb 19, 2009 by EOL − Keir Morse (cc-by-nc-sa)
Taken Jul 27, 2010 by EOL − Barry Breckling (cc-by-nc-sa)
Taken Jul 11, 2014 by EOL − Barry Rice (cc-by-nc-sa)
Taken Jan 1, 1900 by EOL − This image is not copyrighted and may be freely used for any purpose. Please credit the artist, original publication if applicable, and the USDA-NRCS PLANTS Database. The following format is suggested and will be appreciated: Sheri Hagwood @ USDA-NRCS PLANTS Database If you cite PLA (public)
Taken Nov 6, 2012 by EOL − Barry Breckling (cc-by-nc-sa)
Leaf
Taken Jul 3, 2021 by Autumnau (cc-by-sa)
Taken Aug 20, 2019 by Lyse Lrmg (cc-by-sa)
Taken Jul 2, 2020 by Mykala Spangler (cc-by-sa)
Taken Sep 29, 2019 by Eli Mackewich (cc-by-sa)
Taken Jul 13, 2021 by Bodie Spinner (cc-by-sa)
Bark
Taken Feb 19, 2009 by EOL − Keir Morse (cc-by-nc-sa)
Other
Taken Jul 13, 2021 by Bodie Spinner (cc-by-sa)
© copyright of the Board of Trustees of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew.
Sources
- WFO (No URL)
- IPNI (No URL)
- GBIF (https://www.gbif.org/species/3170636)
- POWO (http://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:801027-1)
- PlantNet (https://identify.plantnet.org/species/the-plant-list/Castilleja linariifolia Benth.)
Specifications
Growth habit>: Subshrub, Forb/herb