False Indigo or Baptisia, is a flowering perennial that is native to North America. The low maintenance plants are great for cut flowers, wildlife and mass plantings in gardens.
False Indigo the common name for Baptisia australis. This flowering perennial is native to North America and commonly found in the midwest growing wild at the edge of the woods, next to streams, and in meadows. This desirable plant typically has dark green foliage that highlights the flowers in blue, white, purple or yellow. These plants hold up well against drought and harsh winters.
Blue, white, purple or yellow flowers
Native to North America
Drought tolerant & winter hardy
2 to 4 feet tall
Growing zones 4 to 9
About False Indigo
Genus
Species
Family
Baptisia
Australis, tinctoria, alba, bracteata,
Fabaceae
Common Names:
Wild Indigo, Blue Wild Indigo, Blue False Indigo
Native To:
North America
Plant Type:
Perennials
Foliage Type:
Deciduous
USDA Plant Hardiness Zone:
3 - 9
Flower Color:
Blue, Purple, Yellow, White, Cream
Flower Bloom Time:
Late spring to early summer
Growth Habit:
Clumping
Attracts:
Bees, Butterflies, Hummingbirds
Tolerates:
Drought, Heat, Deer
Resists:
Deer, Rabbits, Pests, Disease, Drought
How To Use False Indigo In The Garden
False indigo (Baptisia australis) is a perennial plant notable for its deep blue, pea-like flowers that bloom in late spring. The blossoms are arranged on tall spikes, creating a striking visual display. False indigo is also highly resilient, tolerating drought conditions once established and requiring minimal maintenance. Its deep taproot system not only aids in drought resistance but also contributes to the plant's impressive longevity and nitrogen-fixing capabilities.
Gardeners often plant Baptisia in flower gardens, wildlife sanctuaries, garden planters, or rock gardens. Its substantial size and shrubby form make it an excellent choice for back-of-the-border placements, providing structure and depth to perennial beds. Incorporate it in meadow or cottage settings, paired with early-season bloomers so its tinted foliage can take center stage after those flowers fade. Low-growing shrubs can be used to support the taller stems and also showcase the striking seedpods in late summer.
False Indigo Care
Plant False Indigo (Baptisia australis) in full sun with well-drained, slightly acidic to neutral soil. While rich soil is ideal, these plants tolerate poor soil conditions. During the first year, water deeply to maintain consistently moist soil. Once established, False Indigo becomes highly drought-tolerant due to its deep taproot. Fertilization is generally unnecessary, but a balanced, slow-release fertilizer can be applied in spring if desired.
After flowering, cutting back the plant by one-third can help maintain its shape. Deadheading spent flowers keeps the plant tidy but removes the ornamental seed pods that add fall interest. In winter, frost causes the plant to turn black and collapse; many gardeners prefer cutting it back in fall to avoid mushy cleanup. When growing in containers, use a large pot with well-draining soil and place it in a location receiving at least six hours of sun.
Plants that go well with false indigo (Baptisia) are sun loving perennials, shrubs and annuals. These tall upright plants look great growing next to salvia, bee balm, coneflowers, ninebark, elderberry and ornamental grasses.
