Blue False Indigo

Baptisia australis (Blue False Indigo) is an erect-growing, very long-lived perennial legume that typically grows to 4.9 ft. We have production fields of Blue False Indigo transplanted in 1999 that are still thriving today. This bushy perennial puts energy into developing its root system for the first few growing seasons and will not bloom. Baptisia australis blooms in late spring/early summer with deep purple pea-like flowers. Seed pods of Blue False Indigo are erect on the stem and approximately 2.5 in. long. At one time, children used the ripe seedheads as rattles. Baptisia australis is native from Texas to Georgia and Iowa to Pennsylvania. It is found in open woods, along riverbanks, and sandy floodplains. Blue False Indigo is drought tolerant and deer resistant. We have observed a Baptisia australis planting that looked very attractive when pruned like a boxwood hedge. Blue False Indigo is a nice addition in partial shade to full sun pollinator-friendly meadow mixes. Bumblebees are one of the pollinators of Baptisia australis. Individual seed lots of Blue False Indigo can have high seed dormancy levels. To break dormancy for transplant production, we recommend scarifying the seed by placing a sheet of 220-grain sandpapeer on a cookie sheet and an 80-grain sandpaper on a sanding block. Use the sanding block to rub the Baptisia australis seed with sufficient pressure to split up to 2% of the seed. Blue False Indigo seedlings are easily recognized. They are erect with trifoliate leaves in alternate psitions on the stem and larger leaves than those of Baptisia tinctoria (Yellow False Indigo). Baptisia australis is a member of the pea (Fabaceae) family. Baptisia comes from the Greek word bapto, which means to dye, while the species name australis means southern. Map Key Present in state Present and native in county; not rare Present and native in county; rare State or county listed as noxious Present but introduced in county Not present in state Species extirpated (historic) Present in state; exotic This map shows the native and introduced (adventive) range of this species. Given appropriate habitat and climate, native plants can be grown outside their range. Indicator Regions Northcentral & Northeast: FACU Midwest FACU Eastern Mountains and Piedmont: FACU Atlantic and Gulf Coastal Plain FACU View Map & Key Blue False Indigo Planting Information Planting details can vary based on your region, site conditions, and seed mix. For best results, we recommend reviewing our detailed planting guides. These guides include region-specific timing, site preparation, seeding methods, and tips for establishing native species successfully. Planting Guides Shipping and DeliveryWe’re committed to getting your seed order to you efficiently and in great condition. Here’s what to expect:Shipping Methods & RatesOnline orders ship via UPS Ground or Air, depending on the weight of your order. This calculation is based on the weight, destination, and carrier service selected at checkout.Shipping LocationsOnline orders can only be shipped in the United States. To place an international order, please contact us directly at (800) 813-3321 or [email protected] & DeliveryOnce your order ships, you’ll receive an email with a UPS tracking number.Sales TaxSales tax is calculated based on your shipping location at checkout after your address validation has been completed.Need Help?Have questions about shipping options, delivery timing, or custom orders? Contact our customer service team at 800-873-3321 or [email protected] — we’re happy to help.