Description
Baptisia australis, commonly known as Blue False Indigo or Wild Blue Indigo, is a native perennial legume. It blooms in spring and can grow to a height of 3 feet. On glades, it is usually much shorter.
Wildlife notes
Queen bumblebees are the primary pollinators of the flowers, where they feed on nectar primarily. Other insects feed destructively on the leaves, developing seeds, and other parts of Blue Wild Indigo.
Forage notes
Livestock tend to avoid this plant’s rather toxic leaves.
Landscaping notes
Easily grown in average, dry to medium, well-drained soil in full sun to part shade. Best in full sun. Tolerates drought and poor soils. Plants should not be disturbed once established. The showy seed pods are valued additions to dried flower arrangements. This is a popular garden plant for its flowers, interesting foliage, and ornamental seedpods (which are toxic to eat, so take care with children).
Restoration notes
This plant occurs in limestone and dolomite glades, rocky prairies, and fields.
This plant is commonly used in the following mixes:
Videos About This Plant
To learn more about this plant, check out our videos about it and its uses.