False indigo

False Indigo (Baptisia australis)

This prairie native is superbly adapted to growing in our Wisconsin gardens. It is tolerant of our extreme temperatures and glaciated soil conditions. Its blue pea-like flowers were historically used as a blue dye substitute for true indigo (thus the common name "False Indigo"). It forms a large 36"-48" shrub-like specimen of glaucous green foliage topped by racemes of purple-blue flowers in early summer. The flowers are followed by attractive black seed pods that we leave standing throughout the winter for off-season interest. Baptisia has adapted to growing in less-than-ideal conditions by putting down firm roots. Once planted Baptisia should be left undisturbed as it has a tremendous taproot and resents disturbance. We have several varieties available (some in small supply). Some cultivars include 'Purple Smoke', 'Midnight Prairieblues', 'Screaming Yellow' , Baptisia minor and a Purple & Yellow seed strain. All are supreme garden plants. Hardy to Zone 3.

- Monches Farm (link here)