Indian paintbrush
Indian paintbrush is a vibrant wildflower known for its striking red, orange, or yellow bracts that resemble a painter's brush. It typically grows in open fields, meadows, and along roadsides across North America, particularly in the western United States. The plant is a hemiparasite, meaning it can photosynthesize but also derives some nutrients from the roots of nearby plants.
The scientific name for Indian paintbrush is Castilleja, and it belongs to the Orobanchaceae family. These flowers bloom in late spring to early summer, attracting various pollinators, including bees and butterflies. Indian paintbrush is often associated with native American culture and is the state flower of Wyoming.