Giant Red Indian Paintbrush (Castilleja miniata)

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Sunlight Full sun to partial shade; thrives in open meadows and rocky slopes with ample sunlight

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Watering Water deeply when top 5–7 cm of soil is dry; drought-tolerant once established

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Temperature Cold hardy to -30°C; tolerates moderate summer heat in well-drained soil

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Leaf: Linear to lanceolate, gray-green, 2–10 cm long, arranged alternately along stems
Flower: Tiny greenish-yellow true flowers nestled within showy bright red to orange-red bracts
Stem: Erect, hairy, branching sparsely near the top

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Watering

Keep soil moderately moist during active growth periods

Fertilization

Minimal, diluted low-nitrogen feed if needed. High-nitrogen fertilizers may reduce bract color intensity

Banana peel tea：Steep 1–2 chopped banana peels in 4 liters of water for 24 hours; dilute 1:2 before applying to soil

Pruning

Deadhead spent blooms to encourage prolonged flowering into mid-summer
Cut back stems to basal growth in late autumn to promote healthy regrowth the following spring
Remove diseased or damaged foliage promptly to prevent spread of fungal pathogens

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Warning: this plant may be toxic.

Pets & Humans

Pets: Not listed as toxic to cats by ASPCA

Humans: No documented toxicity to humans

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Culture: Symbolizes beauty and resilience in some Indigenous North American folklore

Usage: Ornamental wildflower for pollinator gardens; supports bees and hummingbirds