Downy Paintbrush
Castilleja sessiliflora
Last reviewed: June 2026
Light
full sun
Water
low
Size
6"–12" H × 4"–8" W
Bloom
May, Jun, Jul
Native to
AZ, CO, IA, IL and 12 more states
Pollinators
bees, butterflies
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Downy paintbrush is a compact native wildflower that produces distinctive orange-red bracts resembling paintbrush tips from late spring through summer. This low-growing perennial forms small clumps and thrives in sunny, well-drained locations with minimal water once established.
In an HOA neighborhood
Downy Paintbrush takes more care to keep looking intentional in a front yard. Maintenance level: low. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.
Works well in: backyard only.
- Appears wild and unmanicured to most HOAs
- Unknown dormancy appearance could look messy
- Very small size makes it look sparse in formal landscapes
Wildlife value
The colorful blooms attract native bees and butterflies during the growing season. Its nectar-rich flowers provide an important food source for pollinators in late spring and early summer.
Native range data from the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists. Pollinator and host plant associations compiled from GBIF, iNaturalist, and published ecological literature.
Does Downy Paintbrush fit your yard? Open it in Pollinator Patch to check it against your sun, soil, and HOA-conscious filters.