Blue Wild Indigo (Baptisia australis)

Native to eastern North American prairies, meadows, open woods and along streams, blue false indigo got its common name because it was once used as a substitute for true indigo. Blue False Indigo (Baptisia australis) is a large bush-like perennial, with dense clusters of deep purplish- blue flowers on long upright spikes. The foliage remains attractive all season until it dies back to the ground in the winter. The stems should be cut back to the ground in late fall, winter, or early spring before new shoots appear.

Species of genus Baptisia are legumes. Most legume species harbor beneficial bacteria called rhizobia on their roots. Genus-specific strains of this bacterium called inoculum can aid in the fixation of atmospheric nitrogen and improve long-term health of native plant communities. Inoculum is naturally-occurring in most soils and additional amendment is usually not needed. However, in low fertility soils it may be necessary. Blue False Indigo is also a host plant for the Frosted Elfin, Wild Indigo Duskywing, and Hoary Edge butterflies.

Vital Details:

Size: 4’ x 4’

Light: Full Sun (6+ hrs/day)

Water: Dry to medium.

Hardiness: 4-9

Pollinator value: Attracts butterflies, bees, and other pollinators.

Host Plant To The Following: Blue False Indigo is also a host plant for the Frosted Elfin, Wild Indigo Duskywing, and Hoary Edge butterflies.

Notable features: Rabbit and deer-resistant, proven winners, native, heat tolerant, dry soils, drought tolerant.

Plant name: Blue Wild Indigo (Babtisia australis)