Contents
Description
Baptisia Australis Purple Smoke, also known as False Indigo or Wild Indigo, is a herbaceous perennial plant that belongs to the Fabaceae family. It is a native plant to North America and can grow up to 3-4 feet tall and 2-3 feet wide. The plant has a deep root system that makes it ideal for drought-tolerant gardens. Baptisia Australis Purple Smoke is known for its showy spikes of smoky violet flowers that bloom in late spring to early summer.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Fabales |
| Family | Fabaceae |
| Genus | Baptisia |
Appearance
Baptisia Australis Purple Smoke has blue-green leaves that are trifoliate, meaning each leaf is composed of three leaflets. The plant produces upright, sturdy stems that are covered with a unique smoky violet color flowers. The flowers are pea-like and grow in clusters along the length of the stem. The plant’s seed pods are also unique, as they are inflated and turn black when mature.
Care Guide
Water: Baptisia Australis Purple Smoke is a drought-tolerant plant and can handle dry conditions. Watering is only necessary during extended periods of drought.
Fertilization: Baptisia Australis Purple Smoke does not require fertilizer. However, if you want to apply it, use a balanced fertilizer in the spring before new growth appears.
Soil: The plant prefers well-draining soil that is slightly acidic. It can grow in a wide range of soils, including sandy, loamy, or clay.
Sunlight: Baptisia Australis Purple Smoke prefers full sun, but it can also grow in partial shade.
Hardiness Zones: The plant can grow in USDA hardiness zones 3 to 9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Baptisia Australis Purple Smoke is generally pest and disease-free. However, it is susceptible to root rot and fungal diseases. To prevent these, make sure the soil is well-draining and do not overwater the plant.
Habitat
Baptisia Australis Purple Smoke is native to North America and can be found growing in prairies, meadows, and open woods. It prefers well-draining soils and full sun.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Baptisia Australis Purple Smoke deer resistant?
A: Yes, the plant is deer resistant.
Q: Can Baptisia Australis Purple Smoke be grown in containers?
A: The plant has a deep root system, so it is not recommended for container gardening.
Q: When should I prune Baptisia Australis Purple Smoke?
A: Pruning should be done in the fall after the plant has finished flowering.
Q: Can Baptisia Australis Purple Smoke be propagated by division?
A: Yes, the plant can be propagated by division in the spring or fall.
Related Plants
- Baptisia australis
- Baptisia alba
- Baptisia leucophaea
- Baptisia tinctoria
References
- “Baptisia Australis.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=c350.
- “Baptisia Australis.” Plant Database, www.gardenia.net/plant/baptisia-australis-blue-wild-indigo.
- “Baptisia Australis Purple Smoke.” White Flower Farm, www.whiteflowerfarm.com/baptisia-australis-purple-smoke.
