Castilleja integra facts for kids

Quick facts for kids Castilleja integra
Scientific classification
Genus:	Castilleja
Species:	integra
Synonyms
Castilleja angustifolia A.Gray [Illegitimate] Castilleja elongata Pennell Castilleja integra var. gracilis Cockerell Castilleja integra var. intermedia Cockerell Castilleja tomentosa A.Gray

Castilleja integra, also known as the wholeleaf Indian paintbrush, is a special plant found in the southwestern parts of the United States. It's an herbaceous perennial, which means it has soft stems and grows back year after year. This plant is native to the Southwestern United States, living for many years in the same spot.

Where Does This Plant Live?

This interesting plant grows naturally in several states. You can find it in Arizona, Colorado, New Mexico, and Texas.

The wholeleaf Indian paintbrush was first found in the Organ Mountains of Southern New Mexico. This was close to El Paso, Texas. A botanist named Charles Wright discovered it. Later, in 1858, another scientist named Asa Gray wrote the first official description of the plant.

Castilleja integra growing at Great Sand Dunes National Park.

How People Used the Paintbrush Plant

Long ago, the Zuni people, a Native American tribe, found a clever use for this plant. They used the bark from the plant's roots. They mixed this bark with special minerals. This mixture created a black dye. They used this dye to color deerskin, making it dark and beautiful.