Baptisia Cherries Jubilee

Description

Baptisia Cherries Jubilee, also known as False Indigo, is a perennial herbaceous plant that belongs to the Fabaceae family. It is a hybrid cultivar derived from Baptisia australis and Baptisia alba, and it was first introduced in 2002. This plant is characterized by its unique cherry red and yellow flowers that bloom in the late spring to early summer. It is an attractive ornamental plant that is commonly grown in gardens and landscapes.

Taxonomic Information

Appearance

Baptisia Cherries Jubilee grows up to 3-4 feet tall and 2-3 feet wide. It has a bushy and upright growth habit with a woody stem. The leaves are blue-green, trifoliate, and grow up to 4-6 inches long. The flowers are the most distinct feature of this plant, with cherry red and yellow colors that bloom on tall spikes up to 18-24 inches long. The fruits are green, pod-like, and contain seeds that turn black when mature.

Care Guide

Baptisia Cherries Jubilee is an easy-to-grow plant that requires minimal care. Here are some tips on how to care for this plant:Water: Baptisia Cherries Jubilee prefers well-draining soil and moderate watering. Water the plant deeply once a week and avoid overwatering as it can cause root rot.Fertilization: Apply a balanced fertilizer in the early spring before new growth appears. Avoid over-fertilizing as it can cause excessive foliage growth and reduce flower production.Soil: Baptisia Cherries Jubilee prefers well-draining soil that is slightly acidic to neutral. Amend the soil with organic matter such as compost or peat moss to improve soil structure and fertility.Sunlight: Baptisia Cherries Jubilee prefers full sun to partial shade. It can tolerate some shade but may produce fewer flowers.Hardiness Zones: Baptisia Cherries Jubilee is hardy in USDA Zones 4-9.

Common Pests & Diseases

Baptisia Cherries Jubilee is relatively pest and disease-free. However, it may be susceptible to fungal diseases such as leaf spot and root rot in poorly drained soil. It may also attract aphids, spider mites, and leafhoppers. To prevent these issues, maintain good soil drainage, provide adequate air circulation, and use insecticidal soap or neem oil to control pests.

Habitat

Baptisia Cherries Jubilee is native to North America and is commonly found in prairies, meadows, and open woodlands. It prefers well-draining soil and full sun to partial shade. This plant is drought-tolerant and can survive in various soil types.

Question and Answer

Q: Is Baptisia Cherries Jubilee deer-resistant?
A: Yes, Baptisia Cherries Jubilee is deer-resistant due to its bitter taste and toxic properties.Q: How often should I fertilize Baptisia Cherries Jubilee?
A: Apply a balanced fertilizer once a year in the early spring before new growth appears.Q: Can I propagate Baptisia Cherries Jubilee from cuttings?
A: No, Baptisia Cherries Jubilee is best propagated from seed or division in the fall or early spring.Q: How long does it take for Baptisia Cherries Jubilee to bloom?
A: Baptisia Cherries Jubilee blooms in late spring to early summer, typically around May or June.

Related Plants

Here are some related plants to Baptisia Cherries Jubilee:

• Baptisia alba
• Baptisia australis
• Baptisia bracteata
• Baptisia leucophaea
• Baptisia tinctoria

References

• Missouri Botanical Garden. (n.d.). Baptisia Cherries Jubilee. Retrieved from https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=277930
• North Carolina State University. (n.d.). Baptisia Cherries Jubilee. Retrieved from https://plants.ces.ncsu.edu/plants/all/baptisia-cherries-jubilee/
• University of Illinois Extension. (n.d.). Baptisia. Retrieved from https://web.extension.illinois.edu/perennialplants/plantdetail.cfm?PlantID=594