Golden paintbrush (Castilleja levisecta) COSEWIC assessment and status report: chapter 1

Assessment Summary – November 2007

Common name : Golden paintbrush

Scientific name : Castilleja levisecta

Status : Endangered

Reason for designation : The species is a perennial hemiparasitic herb of maritime meadows found within the Garry oak ecosystem of southeastern Vancouver Island. The species has lost most of its historic populations, having once been known from 7 locations. One small population was extirpated in recent years. The species is presently reduced to two populations on two small islands in the Victoria area. The spread of invasive alien plants continues to place the species at risk on Trial Island.

Occurrence : British Columbia

Status history : Designated Threatened in April 1995. Status re-examined and designated Endangered in May 2000 and in November 2007. Last assessment based on an update status report.