Baptisia australis

Herbaceous perennial

Plant in spring; blooms in late spring/early summer

Full sun to part shade (prefers full sun of at least 6 hours per day)

50–70°F (10–21°C)

Well-drained, average to poor soil (tolerates clay, loam, and sandy soils)

3–9 (USDA)

Can be propagated from seed, but it can be slow and take several years to flower

Slightly acidic to neutral (6.0–7.0)

Water during the first year to establish roots, then only as needed during prolonged dry spells. Drought-tolerant once established

Usually not necessary. May benefit from a light application of balanced fertilizer in early spring before new growth begins, but avoid over-fertilizing

Upright, bushy, clump-forming

Seed or division (division can be difficult due to deep taproot)

3–4 ft

3–4 ft

Pea-like, indigo blue (can also be violet-blue or purple)

Butterflies, bees, hummingbirds

Borders, cottage gardens, prairies, meadows, native plant gardens, specimen plant

Plants that prefer similar growing conditions, such as coneflowers (Echinacea), yarrow (Achillea), and ornamental grasses

Cut back stems after flowering to maintain shape and prevent self-seeding, or leave seed pods for winter interest

Generally considered non-toxic to humans, but may cause mild stomach upset if ingested

Rarely bothered by pests, but can be susceptible to weevils and aphids

Generally disease-resistant but can be affected by powdery mildew and leaf spot

Baptisia australis was used as a substitute for true indigo dye by early American colonists

Other Baptisia species, sometimes confused with wild indigo (Baptisia tinctoria) or other blue-flowered legumes. Also, sometimes confused with Lupinus (lupine) when not in bloom

It is a long-lived perennial. Deep taproot makes it difficult to transplant once established. Seed pods are ornamental and can be used in dried arrangements