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Hairy Indian paintbrush facts for kids

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Hairy Indian paintbrush
Castilleja tenuis.jpg
Scientific classification
Genus:
Castilleja
Species:
tenuis

Castilleja tenuis is a type of wild flower. It is often called the hairy Indian paintbrush. This plant is known for its bright, colorful flowers.

You can find this plant in western North America. It grows in places like the Northwestern United States, California, Nevada, and British Columbia. It likes to live in meadows and mountain areas. These include the Sierra Nevada and Cascade Range mountains. It can grow quite high up, from about 3,300 to 9,200 feet (1,000 to 2,800 meters) above sea level.

What Does Hairy Indian Paintbrush Look Like?

This plant is an annual herb. This means it lives for only one growing season. It can grow up to about 18 inches (45 centimeters) tall. The plant's stems and leaves are often green. They can also have a purplish color. The whole plant is covered in tiny hairs. This is why it's called "hairy" Indian paintbrush!

Flowers and Bracts

The flowers of Castilleja tenuis grow in a cluster. This cluster is called an inflorescence. It has many narrow leaf-like parts called bracts. The actual flowers are small and hidden. They are usually white or bright yellow. These flowers have a unique, pouched shape.

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