False Indigo

General
Scientific Name: Amorpha False Indigo fruticosa
Family: Fabaceae (Legume)
Hardiness: Zone 3
Leaves: Deciduous
Plant Type: Shrub

Growth
Rate: Medium
Mature Height: >7’
Longevity: Medium
Power Line: Yes

Ornamental
Flowers: Purple
Fruit: Green pods
Fall Color: Yellow

False indigo is a native legume found in moist woodland areas, stream banks and swamp regions, growing from central to eastern Canada south throughout much of the US to northern Mexico . This plant has been cultivated since 1724 and grows well in moist soils. Subject to periodic dieback and regrowth which may be accentuated by drought. Similar to a sub-shrub or half-shrub.

Light: Full sun to light shade.
Water: Prefers above average moisture.
Soil: Adaptable to a variety of soil types.

Plants have pinnately compound leaves. Prune in the late winter to early spring to improve shrub form.

It is considered weedy/invasive in some parts of its range, particularly in the northeastern and northwestern US. It may spread by self-seeding and or suckers to form dense thickets. This method of spreading is very beneficial in conservation or tree row plantings.