False indigo, Baptisia australis, is a rather unusual plant which grows in well-drained acid soils. The foliage is like that of a tall, bushy pea plant with blue-green leaves. In early summer plants are topped with tall spires of large, blue pea flowers like those of a rather large lupin. After the flowers are over, plants produce large seed pods which ripen to a deep grey and are an attractive late feature. The Royal Horticultural Society has given it its prestigious Award of Garden Merit (AGM).
Grow Baptisia australis in a sunny acidic border, or in pots for a dramatic patio display. Baptisias dislike being disturbed, so save the seeds to sow in spring to raise new plants, rather than trying to divide old ones.
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Plant
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Baptisia ‘Australis’ and wildlife
Baptisia ‘Australis’ is known for attracting bees. It has nectar/pollen rich flowers.
Is known to attract Bees
Bees
Is not known to attract Beneficial insects
Beneficial insects
Is not known to attract Birds
Birds
Is not known to attract Butterflies/Moths
Butterflies/Moths
Is not known to attract Other pollinators
Other pollinators
Is Baptisia ‘Australis’ poisonous?
Baptisia ‘Australis’ has no toxic effects reported.
