Indian Paintbrush
Castilleja indivisa
Last reviewed: June 2026
Light
full sun
Water
medium
Size
6"–18" H × 12"–18" W
Bloom
Mar, Apr, May, Jun, Jul, Aug
Native to
AL, AR, FL, LA and 2 more states
Pollinators
butterflies, hummingbirds
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Indian Paintbrush is Texas's state wildflower, producing vibrant red-orange flower spikes from spring through summer. This compact annual grows 6-18 inches tall and adds brilliant color to sunny areas with its distinctive brush-like blooms.
In an HOA neighborhood
Indian Paintbrush is an HOA-friendly choice in the right placement. Maintenance level: moderate. Tidiness: 2 out of 5.
Works well in: front yard, foundation, street edge, mid zone.
- Requires seasonal replanting
- May have messy dieback
Wildlife value
Attracts butterflies and hummingbirds with its bright tubular flowers and extended bloom period from March through August.
Common questions
- How much sun does Indian Paintbrush need?
- Indian Paintbrush grows best in full sun conditions.
- When does Indian Paintbrush bloom?
- Indian Paintbrush blooms in March, April, May, June, July, and August.
- Where is Indian Paintbrush native?
- Indian Paintbrush (Castilleja indivisa) is native to AL, AR, FL, LA and 2 more states, per the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists.
- What pollinators does Indian Paintbrush attract?
- Indian Paintbrush draws butterflies and hummingbirds.
- Is Indian Paintbrush HOA-friendly?
- Indian Paintbrush is generally an HOA-friendly choice in the right placement, with moderate maintenance.
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 Indian Paintbrush fit your yard? Open it in Pollinator Patch to check it against your sun, soil, and HOA-conscious filters.