Northwestern Indian Paintbrush
Castilleja angustifolia
Last reviewed: August 2026
The USDA PLANTS Database (opens in new tab) does not flag Northwestern Indian Paintbrush as toxic to livestock.
Light
full sun
Water
low
Size
6"–18" H × 4"–12" W
Bloom
May, Jun, Jul
Native to
CO, ID, MT, NV and 4 more states
Pollinators
bees, hummingbirds
Before you buy
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Northwestern Indian paintbrush is a compact native wildflower with distinctive bright red-orange bracts that create showy flower clusters. This drought-tolerant perennial blooms from May through July and stays relatively small at 6-18 inches tall. It thrives in full sun and requires minimal water once established.
In an HOA neighborhood
Northwestern Indian 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 very wild and unmanicured
- May be viewed as a weed by traditionalists
- Unknown leaf retention could mean messy appearance in winter
Wildlife value
The tubular flowers attract hummingbirds and various bee species during the extended bloom period. The bright red bracts make it particularly appealing to hummingbirds seeking nectar sources.
Common questions
- How much sun does Northwestern Indian Paintbrush need?
- Northwestern Indian Paintbrush grows best in full sun conditions.
- When does Northwestern Indian Paintbrush bloom?
- Northwestern Indian Paintbrush blooms in May, June, and July.
- Where is Northwestern Indian Paintbrush native?
- Northwestern Indian Paintbrush (Castilleja angustifolia) is native to CO, ID, MT, NV and 4 more states, per vouchered herbarium specimen records and regional native plant society lists.
- Is Northwestern Indian Paintbrush toxic to livestock?
- The USDA PLANTS Database does not flag Northwestern Indian Paintbrush as toxic to livestock.
- What pollinators does Northwestern Indian Paintbrush attract?
- Northwestern Indian Paintbrush draws bees and hummingbirds.
- Is Northwestern Indian Paintbrush HOA-friendly?
- Northwestern Indian Paintbrush takes more care to look intentional in a front yard. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.
Native range data from vouchered herbarium specimen records and regional native plant society lists. Pollinator and host plant associations compiled from GBIF, iNaturalist, and published ecological literature.
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