Blue False Indigo (Baptisia australis)

Herbaceous, spring-flowering perennial
Description: Deep indigo blue, pea-like flowers in clusters above shrubby plants with bright blue-green foliage
Habit: Grows 3 to 4' feet high
Culture: Prefers part shade to full sun and moist but well-drained, moderately rich soil
Hardiness: Cold hardy to USDA Zone 3
Origin: North America
Attributes: Drought tolerant, Attracts butterflies

The native Blue False Indigo, introduced to Britain by 1724, was grown in early American gardens as a source of blue dye, to substitute for the costly true imported indigo. This species was noted by Williamsburg naturalist John Clayton in the early 18th century and listed in the catalog of Philadelphia nurserymen John and William Bartram in 1784. Once established, this long-lived perennial is drought tolerant and its attractive blossoms and foliage make it a fine subject for the flower border or wild garden. The showy, inflated black seed pods are used in both fresh and dried flower arrangements.

Blue False Indigo (Baptisia australis) arrives in a 2.5" pot.