Blue False Indigo (Baptisia australis)

Native in US as far north and east as Pennsylvania.  Perennial typically grows 3-4′ tall and occurs in rich woods, thickets and along streambanks. Features purple, lupine-like flowers in erect racemes (to 12″) atop flower spikes extending well above a foliage mound of clover-like, trifoliate, bluish-green leaves (leaflets to 2″ long). Blooms in spring. Flowers give way to inflated seed pods (to 2.5″ long) which turn charcoal black when ripe and have considerable ornamental interest. Seeds rattle around in the blackened pods which were once popularly used by children as rattles. Stems with seed pods are valued additions to dried flower arrangements.

Easily grown in average, dry to medium, well-drained soil in full sun to part shade.  Tolerates drought and poor soils. Over time, plants develop slowly expanding clumps with deep and extensive root systems. Trimming or shearing foliage after bloom helps maintain rounded plant appearance and obviates a possible need for staking, but eliminates the developing seed pods which are so attractive.

$24 for 3 pots