Prairie Paintbrush
Castilleja purpurea
Last reviewed: June 2026
Light
full sun
Water
low
Size
6"–18" H × 6"–12" W
Bloom
Mar, Apr, May
Native to
KS, MO, OK, TX
Pollinators
bees, hummingbirds
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Prairie Paintbrush is a compact wildflower that produces vibrant red-purple flower bracts in spring. This low-growing native perennial forms small clumps and goes dormant in summer heat, returning each spring with colorful blooms.
In an HOA neighborhood
Prairie Paintbrush is an HOA-friendly choice. Maintenance level: low. Tidiness: 2 out of 5.
Works well in: front yard, foundation, street edge, mid zone.
Wildlife value
The tubular flowers attract hummingbirds and native bees during the spring blooming period. This plant serves as an important early-season nectar source when few other wildflowers are in bloom.
Common questions
- How much sun does Prairie Paintbrush need?
- Prairie Paintbrush grows best in full sun conditions.
- When does Prairie Paintbrush bloom?
- Prairie Paintbrush blooms in March, April, and May.
- Where is Prairie Paintbrush native?
- Prairie Paintbrush (Castilleja purpurea) is native to KS, MO, OK, TX, per the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists.
- What pollinators does Prairie Paintbrush attract?
- Prairie Paintbrush draws bees and hummingbirds.
- Is Prairie Paintbrush HOA-friendly?
- Prairie Paintbrush is generally an HOA-friendly choice in the right placement, with low 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 Prairie Paintbrush fit your yard? Open it in Pollinator Patch to check it against your sun, soil, and HOA-conscious filters.