About

This herbaceous perennial, reaching heights of up to 25 cm, exhibits a semi-parasitic nature. Its upright stems are adorned with slender leaves. During the summer months, it produces terminal clusters featuring red-orange bracts, which transition to apple green at their bases, complemented by red flowers.

About the genus

Castilleja comprises both annual and perennial herbaceous species characterized by vibrant red leaf-like bracts that encircle white to green flowers, typically blooming from early to mid-spring.

Growing conditions

Sunlight
Full sun
Soil type
Chalk, Loam, Sand
Soil pH
Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moisture
Moist but well-drained
Aspect
West-facing, South-facing
Exposure
Sheltered
UK hardiness
H4

Plant details

Plant type
Herbaceous Perennial
Habit
Clump forming
Foliage
Deciduous
Height
0.1-0.5 metres
Spread
0.1-0.5 metres
Time to full height
2-5 years
Suggested uses
City and courtyard gardens, Cottage and informal garden, Patio and container plants
Native to
N America

Care notes

Cultivation
Grow in full sun in moist but well-drained soil. Can also be grown successfully in pots; a host plant is not essential
Pruning
No pruning required
Propagation
Propagate by seed
Pest resistance
Generally pest-free
Disease resistance
Generally disease-free