Castilleja applegatei var. viscida (Wavy Leaf Paintbrush)

(Orobanchaceae)

Wavy Leaf Paintbrush aka Viscid Paintbrush has sticky, wavy leaves with a rich red inflorescence. Can be a yellowish or pale red but all that I have collected have been a deep red. Smaller flowers that aren't as prominent as other Castilleja species are hidden behind the deep red bracts and attract unique pollinators.

Extremely hardy to wind and frigid temps, also tolerates poor, salty-sandy and rocky soil. Blooms in May and will continue to bloom through September at higher elevations or with mid-day shade and a little extra water.

Plant in or along a gravel pad, rock/crevice garden, or with some sagebrush and native grasses to watch it really take off. Paintbrushes are hemiparasitic and thrive when planted with other native species; grass and sagebrush are what we see them associated with most often.

Contains appx. 40 seeds

Collected In: Summit County, Utah

Wild/Nursery: Wild

Seasonality: May-September

Germination: 30-60 day cold-moist(32-36°) stratification in a single paper towel or sow outside in the Fall or early Winter. Soil blocks work well too. Rub the coating off the seeds before stratification. Paintbrush do not need a host plant while germinating or establishing in a tray or small pot, just planting it next to a host plant when its ready is perfect.