Endangered Swale Paintbrush Flower in New Mexico Faces Extinction Threat

A rare flower native to New Mexico, the swale paintbrush (also known as glowing Indian paintbrush), is now listed as endangered under the Endangered Species Act, according to the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. This unique flower, found in the southwest corner of New Mexico, is part of an ecosystem that stretches into Chihuahua and Durango in Mexico.

Historically, the swale paintbrush grew in many locations throughout Hidalgo County, New Mexico, and parts of the Sierra Madre Occidental mountain range in Mexico. However, today, it is only known to exist at a single site in Hidalgo County.

Efforts to save this rare plant are underway, with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service working closely with conservation partners across both countries. “Partnerships are essential to protecting this vulnerable plant,” said Amy Lueders, Regional Director of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service.

The swale paintbrush’s historic range has been significantly reduced due to development, agricultural conversion, heavy grazing, and water diversions. Additional threats include surface disturbance, drought, fire, and competition from other vegetation, which can impact the plant’s growing season.

To aid in conservation efforts, experts are calling on citizen scientists to report sightings of the swale paintbrush. “We want to find more of the swale paintbrush and need the public’s help to do so,” said Katie Sandbom, a biologist at the New Mexico Ecological Services Field Office.

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