This flower is one of the first to bloom in early spring. It thus announces; "Spring is here!" It is often a companion to the ever popular fields of Bluebonnets.

The Texas Paintbrush (Castilleja indivisa) is a member of the Figwort or snapdragon family. It is one of approximately 200 Castilleja species. This semiparasitic plant blooms from March through June.

Other common names include Indian Paintbrush, Entireleaf Indian Paintbrush, and Prairie Fire.

Some species of this plant are edible in small quantities. The Chippewa Indians used it as a medicine to treat rheumatism and as a bath rinse to make their hair glossy.

Other interesting facts: One species (Castilleja Mutis) is the Wyoming state flower. It takes 5,100,000 seeds to make a pound.