Family: Orobanchaceae
Author: (A.Gray) A.Gray
Bibliography: S.Watson & al., Bot. California 1: 573 (1876)
Year: 1876
Status: accepted
Rank: species
Genus: Castilleja
Vegetable: False
Observations: Arizona to New Mexico and Mexico (Sonora, Chihuahua)
Description
The Lesser Indian Paintbrush, scientifically known as Castilleja minor, is an intriguing plant species belonging to the Orobanchaceae family. Originally described in the Botany of California in 1876 by eminent botanists, including S. Watson and others, this charming flora stands out for its unique characteristics and geographical distribution.
This species thrives predominantly in the semi-arid regions stretching from Arizona to New Mexico and further extending into Mexico, specifically in the states of Sonora and Chihuahua. Castilleja minor showcases remarkable adaptability to these environments, often painting the landscape with its vibrant blossoms.
The distinguishing features of the Lesser Indian Paintbrush contribute significantly to its aesthetic and ecological value. The plant’s bright inflorescences, often appearing in shades of red, yellow, or orange, are a key identifier and serve an essential role in its reproduction by attracting pollinators. In addition to its visual appeal, the Lesser Indian Paintbrush engages in a fascinating form of parasitism, where it partially relies on the roots of other plants for nutrients.
As a member of the Orobanchaceae family, Castilleja minor shares several botanical traits with its relatives. It underscores the diversity and evolutionary marvels of this plant family, showcasing an intricate balance between dependence and independence in nutrient acquisition.
The Lesser Indian Paintbrush is not just a spectacular addition to its native habitats but also a subject of interest for botanists and plant enthusiasts alike. It continues to be studied for its ecological interactions, adaptive strategies, and its contribution to the biodiversity of the regions it inhabits.
In summary, the Lesser Indian Paintbrush, Castilleja minor, epitomizes the beauty and complexity of desert flora. Its broad distribution from Arizona to New Mexico and into various parts of Mexico stands as a testament to its resilience and ecological importance. The detailed description provided by (A.Gray) A.Gray in the literature highlights its enduring botanical significance.
Common Names
Eng: lesser indian paintbrush, lesser paintbrush, seep paintbrush, small indian paintbrush
Fra: petite castilléjie
En: Lesser Indian paintbrush, Small Indian paintbrush, Smallflower paintbrush, Lesser paintbrush, Seep paintbrush
Fr: Petite castilléjie
: Lesser indian paintbrush
Synonyms
- Castilleja affinis var. minor (A.Gray)
Distribution
- Arizona (native)
- British Columbia (native)
- California (native)
- Colorado (native)
- Idaho (native)
- Mexico Northeast (native)
- Mexico Northwest (native)
- Montana (native)
- Nevada (native)
- New Mexico (native)
- Oregon (native)
- Utah (native)
- Washington (native)
- Wyoming (native)
Additional Images
Flower
Taken Nov 6, 2012 by EOL − Barry Breckling (cc-by-nc-sa)
Taken Mar 17, 1999 by EOL − Charles Webber (cc-by-nc-sa)
Taken Sep 11, 2015 by EOL − Barry Breckling (cc-by-nc-sa)
Taken Nov 28, 2015 by EOL − Keir Morse (cc-by-nc-sa)
Taken Nov 28, 2015 by EOL − Keir Morse (cc-by-nc-sa)
© copyright of the Board of Trustees of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew.
Bark
Taken Mar 19, 1998 by EOL − John Game (cc-by-sa)
Taken Nov 28, 2015 by EOL − Keir Morse (cc-by-nc-sa)
Taken Nov 28, 2015 by EOL − Keir Morse (cc-by-nc-sa)
Taken Nov 28, 2015 by EOL − Keir Morse (cc-by-nc-sa)
Taken Nov 28, 2015 by EOL − Keir Morse (cc-by-nc-sa)
Leaf
Taken Nov 28, 2015 by EOL − Keir Morse (cc-by-nc-sa)
Taken Nov 28, 2015 by EOL − Keir Morse (cc-by-nc-sa)
Habit
Taken Aug 2, 2015 by EOL − Steve Matson (cc-by-nc)
Taken Nov 6, 2012 by EOL − Barry Breckling (cc-by-nc-sa)
Taken Nov 28, 2015 by EOL − Keir Morse (cc-by-nc-sa)
Taken Nov 28, 2015 by EOL − Keir Morse (cc-by-nc-sa)
Taken Nov 28, 2015 by EOL − Keir Morse (cc-by-nc-sa)
Sources
- WFO (No URL)
- IPNI (No URL)
- POWO (http://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:30474499-2)
- GBIF (https://www.gbif.org/species/3170711)
- PlantNet (https://identify.plantnet.org/species/the-plant-list/Castilleja minor (A. Gray) A. Gray)
Specifications
Growth habit>: Forb/herb
