| Aspect | Description |
|---|---|
| Common Name | Blue False Indigo |
| Scientific Name | Baptisia australis |
| Description | Baptisia australis, commonly known as Blue False Indigo, is a herbaceous perennial native to North America. It is a member of the pea family (Fabaceae) and is highly valued for its attractive flowers and foliage. 'Blue False Indigo' features tall, erect stems with bluish-green, trifoliate leaves. In late spring to early summer, it produces showy spikes of deep indigo-blue flowers, resembling those of pea plants. The flowers are followed by inflated seed pods, which add further ornamental interest. This plant is known for its drought tolerance and ability to fix nitrogen in the soil. It is often used in prairie-style gardens, native plant landscapes, and cottage gardens. 'Blue False Indigo' prefers full sun to light shade and well-drained soil. |
| Height | 3 to 4 feet (0.9 to 1.2 meters) |
| Spread | 2 to 3 feet (0.6 to 0.9 meters) |
| Flowers | Deep indigo-blue, pea-like flowers |
| Foliage | Bluish-green, trifoliate leaves |
| Seed Pods | Inflated, ornamental seed pods |
| Growth Habit | Upright, clump-forming |
| Soil Requirements | Well-drained soil |
| Soil Types | Various soil types, adaptable |
| Drainage | Good drainage is essential |
| Sunlight | Full sun to light shade |
| Temperature | Hardy in England, but may not be suitable for extreme cold |
| Watering | Moderate watering, allowing soil to dry between waterings |
| Maintenance | Cut back spent flower spikes after blooming to encourage new growth |
Baptisia australis, or Blue False Indigo, is a beautiful perennial plant that adds a touch of vibrant blue to the garden. With its erect stems, bluish-green foliage, and deep indigo-blue flowers, it is a popular choice for prairie-style gardens, native plant landscapes, and cottage gardens.