Indian Paintbrush is a striking perennial wildflower known for its vivid red-orange bracts that light up meadows, slopes, and open woodlands from mid to late summer. Its color comes not from the flowers themselves, but from the showy bracts that surround them. This unique species is hemiparasitic, it relies on neighboring plants for some of its nutrients by connecting to their root systems. For best success, it should be seeded or planted in an area with established companion plants such as native grasses, legumes, or perennials; lupines are especially effective partners. Though slow to establish, it rewards patience with brilliant color and value to pollinators like hummingbirds and bees.

Indian Paintbrush thrives in well-drained soils rich in organic matter. It grows best in moist montane and sub-alpine meadows, streambanks, forest edges, and other riparian areas. It is not tolerant of Chinook conditions; to ensure winter survival in Chinook-prone regions, plant it on the north or east side of structures or vegetation that retain snow cover. Mature plants are typically avoided due to their bitter chemical compounds, though immature plants may be browsed in high-pressure areas.