coast Indian paintbrush

Castilleja affinis Hook. & Arn.

Coast Indian paintbrush asks for a second look at what seems to be a flower. Much of the vivid display comes from bracts, modified leaves positioned beneath the true flowers. The tubular blossoms are partly concealed among them. In the typical Californian form, the bracts are divided into narrow lobes, creating the brush-like outline associated with the plant's common name. California Academy of Sciences: Castilleja affinis ssp. affinis

Botanical name

Castilleja affinis Hook. & Arn is accepted in the cited taxonomic treatment. The supplied database name identifies the same species. Kew POWO: Castilleja affinis

Recognizing the plant

The plant is hemiparasitic: its green tissues photosynthesise, while roots also connect with those of neighbouring plants. The surrounding vegetation therefore supplies potential partners in its growth. Bract colour varies among forms, and Kew recognises three named varieties within the species. In the typical form, narrow divisions of the showy bracts surround the less conspicuous tubular blossoms. Kew POWO: Castilleja affinis Calflora: Castilleja affinis Santa Monica Mountains Trails Council: Indian Paintbrush

Bloom window

Santa Monica Mountains, California

In the Santa Monica Mountains, a local botanical account records flowering from February to May, while the coloured bracts can remain noticeable beyond the main flowering period. A bright inflorescence is therefore not always evidence that every flower in it is still fresh. Santa Monica Mountains Trails Council: Indian Paintbrush

Native range

Castilleja affinis is a perennial native from California into northern Baja California in Kew's current treatment. Coastal scrub and chaparral are characteristic settings for the typical form. Kew POWO: Castilleja affinis California Academy of Sciences: Castilleja affinis ssp. affinis

Botanical sources

Reviewed 2026-10-11. Seasonal development varies with location and growing conditions.