Diggin' the Natives; Wild Indigo

by Wendy Brister · May 10, 2010

The 2010 Perennial Plant of the Year, Baptisia australis, is just starting to show color in my garden.  Incredible blue-purple flowers stand tall on an almost shrub like plant (3’ x 3’).  This is not a little or dainty perennial, but it is probably the easiest one I have grown (and not killed – that is always a plus).  Blue green foliage does not need staking as long as the plant is sited properly – full sun is a must, plus lean, well drained soil.  Zones 3-9

In honor of my recent trip to some wonderful North Carolina nurseries, I must mention Baptisia x ‘Purple Smoke’ – introduced by Niche Gardens in Chapel Hill, NC.  This is a naturally occurring hybrid of Baptisia alba and Baptisia australis.  Smokey violet flowers above gray-green foliage make this a show stopper.

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About the Author

Wendy Brister

Wendy Brister grew up gardening, went on to college to learn more about plants, and is now – in a variety of ways - sharing with others the horticulture knowledge she has spent her life learning. Brister is an adjunct faculty member at Harrisburg Area Community College specializing in herbaceous plants. She is a consultant, lecturer and a landscape designer. She holds a BS in Landscape Architecture from Temple University Ambler. The self-described plant geek, with a special affection for perennial plants, lives in Eastern York County with her husband Brian, daughter Emma and her dog, Clinger.

One Comment

  1. gorgeous!

    # Posted on May 12, 2010 at 12:27 pm by lisa

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