false indigo
Baptisia bracteata
USDA zones4 to 9
SunHandles full sun to partial shade
WaterHandles dry to moist soil
Size2 to 2.5 feet tall2 to 2.5 feet wide
- Habit
- Herb
- Bloom season
- Spring, summer
- Bloom color
- Creamy white
- Soil types
- Sand, loam
- Soil pH
- Acid, neutral
Garden uses
Attracts
Notes
False indigo (Baptisia bracteata) is a perennial for borders, meadows, and low maintenance gardens. It is hardy to USDA zone 4, or down to -30°F (-34°C). This plant likes full sun to part shade and dry to moist, sandy or loamy soil. Creamy white flower spikes can reach a foot long and make the branches arch. Wind can damage it, so plant it near sturdy companions for support. Flowers are showier on dry sites.
Pairs well with New England aster, Buffalo grass, and Lupine.
Native range
Eastern United States.