Baptisia minor False Indigo

Baptisia minor has spikes of deep purple-blue, pea-like blooms on a smaller version of Baptisia australis. Blooming in early mid-spring, Baptisia minor is an early nectar source for queen bumblebees and worker bees. This garden perennial has leathery blue-green foliage and attractive black seed pods in the fall and winter. Baptisia minor is native to the central and south central United States, where it is typically found on grasslands, in openings in rich woods and thickets and along open stream banks. Also known as False or Wild Indigo, Baptisia prefers full sun and is easily grown in low fertility soil, including clay and dry soil. It prefers acidic soil and its root system resents disturbance once established. Baptisia minor works well in smaller landscapes and gardens.