Wyoming Indian Paintbrush

Castilleja linariaefolia

Physical Characteristics

Castilleja linariaefolia is a PERENNIAL growing to 0.6 m (2ft). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 5. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Hummingbirds (e, g, broad-tailed, rufous), bees, and butterflies. It is noted for attracting wildlife. Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils and can grow in nutritionally poor soil. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils. It can grow in semi-shade (light woodland) or no shade. It prefers moist soil and can tolerate drought.

Distribution

South-western N. America.

Habitats

Cultivated Beds;

Edible Uses

Flowers[257]. Edible Uses & Rating: Only the corollas, and sometimes the nectar, are safely edible—in moderation only, due to the risk of selenium accumulation. Bracts and calyces are fibrous, sometimes resinous, and not recommended. As a wild food, Wyoming paintbrush earns a low edible rating, used mainly for novelty or emergency use rather than routine consumption [2-3]. Taste, Processing & Kitchen Notes: Corollas taste mild to sweet due to nectar stores at the tube base. Their flavour is delicate but can include faint resinous or medicinal overtones. They may be used as a garnish or eaten raw, but only sparingly. Avoid bracts, which can taste bitter or resinous and add fibrous texture [2-3]. Seasonality (Phenology): Plants bloom May–August, depending on elevation. Corollas should be harvested when fully expanded but before drying. Flowering peaks early to mid-summer. Safety & Cautions (Food Use): Because Castilleja species can hyperaccumulate selenium, corollas should be consumed sparingly, and only from soils known to be low in selenium. Never eat leaves, stems, or roots. Harvest & Processing Workflow: Harvest by gently pulling tubular corollas free of the bracts. Flowers may be rinsed and used fresh, or soaked in water to release nectar for a mild, sweet infusion. Look-Alikes & Confusion Risks May be confused with other red paintbrushes; positive ID requires noting the long, linear leaves and regional distribution. Traditional / Indigenous Use Summary: Some tribes occasionally used the flowers as a sweet nibble due to their nectar but avoided the vegetative parts. No documented use of roots, leaves, or stems.

Medicinal Uses

Leprosy Treats skin diseases, kidney disorders and leprosy[155]. A decoction of the plant has been used in the treatment of excessive menstrual discharge and other menstrual difficulties, and also to prevent conception[257]. A decoction of the leaves has been used during pregnancy in order to keep the baby small and thus lead to an easier labour[257]. The root is cathartic[257]. A decoction has been used as a blood purifier[257]. When taken over a long period of time, a decoction of the root is said to be an effective treatment for venereal disease[257]. The plant has been used to treat stomach aches[257].

Known Hazards

Because Castilleja species can hyperaccumulate selenium, corollas should be consumed sparingly, and only from soils known to be low in selenium. Never eat leaves, stems, or roots.