Baptisia australis

Common name(s): blue wild indigo, blue false indigo

Description: perennial; an herb used by many first nations peoples and early settlers to make blue dye before true indigo was commonly available. Baptisia australis is found in open woodlands and grasslands in central and eastern North America. Long lupine-like spikes of blue-purple flowers in late spring that become decorative seed pods by late summer. Incredibly drought-tolerant and cold hardy; a very low-maintenance perennial. 

Height: to 4 ft. Spread: to 3 ft.

Position: full sun and well-draining soil

Uses: ornamental, to attract pollinators, dyeing, dried floral arrangements

Winter Hardiness: to 0 F and below

Drought: adapted to 3+ months of summer drought

Distribution: Central and East U.S.