Contents
Description
Baptisia Cinerea is a herbaceous perennial plant that belongs to the Fabaceae family. It is also known as the ash blue wild indigo or the gray baptisia. This plant is native to the Southeastern United States, particularly in Alabama, Georgia, and Florida.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Fabales |
| Family | Fabaceae |
| Genus | Baptisia |
Appearance
The Baptisia Cinerea plant can grow up to 3 feet tall and 3 feet wide. Its leaves are bluish-gray and are composed of three leaflets. The plant produces spikes of gray-blue flowers in late spring or early summer. The flowers are about 1 inch long and are arranged in a raceme. The plant’s fruit is a dark-brown pod that contains several seeds.
Care Guide
The Baptisia Cinerea plant is relatively easy to care for. Here are some tips:
- Water: Water the plant regularly, especially during the first growing season. Afterward, the plant can tolerate drought.
- Fertilization: Fertilize the plant once a year in early spring using a balanced fertilizer.
- Soil: The plant prefers well-draining soil that is slightly acidic. It can tolerate a wide range of soil types, from sandy to clayey.
- Sunlight: The plant prefers full sun but can also grow in partial shade.
- Hardiness Zones: The plant can grow in USDA Hardiness Zones 5 to 9.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Baptisia Cinerea plant is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, some common ones include:
- Aphids: These sap-sucking insects can cause stunted growth and distorted leaves. Use insecticidal soap to control them.
- Spider Mites: These tiny pests can cause yellowing and dropping of leaves. Use insecticidal soap to control them.
- Powdery Mildew: This fungal disease causes a powdery white coating on leaves. Use a fungicide to control it.
Habitat
The Baptisia Cinerea plant is native to the Southeastern United States, particularly in Alabama, Georgia, and Florida. It grows in open woods, meadows, and prairies.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Baptisia Cinerea grow in containers?
A: Yes, it can grow in containers as long as the container is large enough to accommodate the plant’s roots.
Q: How often should I fertilize Baptisia Cinerea?
A: Fertilize the plant once a year in early spring using a balanced fertilizer.
Q: How do I propagate Baptisia Cinerea?
A: You can propagate the plant through seed or by dividing the clumps in early spring or late fall.
Q: How tall can Baptisia Cinerea grow?
A: The plant can grow up to 3 feet tall and 3 feet wide.
Related Plants
- Baptisia alba
- Baptisia australis
- Baptisia bracteata
- Baptisia leucophaea
References
- “Baptisia cinerea.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=c710.
- “Baptisia cinerea.” Plant Finder, www.monrovia.com/plant-catalog/plants/2022/ash-blue-wild-indigo/.
- “Baptisia cinerea.” Plants of the World Online, powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:49059-2.
