Scrophulariaceae

Castilleja pruinosa

Frosted Paintbrush

Upright, may have few branches. Stems and lower leaves densely covered with hairs, the most highly branched giving the plant a frosted appearance. Flower head 1–8 in. long, with tricolored bracts with bright orange-red tips, narrow yellow stripe, green at base; calyx with orange-red sharp tips, green base; flower green with red margins. Grows in dry, open, rocky serpentine areas or edges of forest at mid to high elevations. For an interesting view of branched hairs, which among members of Castilleja are unique to this species, use a hand lens.

• Rarity: Locally Common
• Flowering Time: Mid Summer
• Life Cycle: Perennial
• Height: 12--30 inches
• Habitat: West-Side Forest
• Found In: Siskiyous
• Native: Yes