Contents
Description
Indigofera Capillaris, also known as Narrow-Leaved Indigo, is a perennial shrub that belongs to the family Fabaceae. It is native to the southeastern United States and can be found in sandy, open areas. The plant has a slender stem that can grow up to 3 feet tall and produces small, pink to purple flowers that bloom from May to September.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Fabales |
| Family | Fabaceae |
| Genus | Indigofera |
Appearance
Indigofera Capillaris has thin, alternate leaves that are about 1-2 inches long and 1/8 inch wide. The leaves are green and have a linear shape. The plant produces small, pink to purple flowers that grow in clusters along the stem. The flowers have a papilionaceous structure, meaning they have a large upper petal, two lateral petals, and two fused lower petals that form a keel. The fruit of the plant is a small, brown pod that contains several seeds.
Care Guide
Indigofera Capillaris is a low-maintenance plant that is easy to care for. Here are some tips for caring for this plant:
- Water: Water the plant regularly, keeping the soil moist but not waterlogged.
- Fertilization: Fertilize the plant once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.
- Soil: The plant prefers well-draining, sandy soil.
- Sunlight: The plant prefers full sun but can tolerate partial shade.
- Hardiness Zones: Indigofera Capillaris is hardy in USDA zones 7-10.
Common Pests & Diseases
Indigofera Capillaris is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, it can be susceptible to root rot if the soil is too wet. Here are some common pests and diseases to watch out for:
- Aphids: Aphids can be removed by spraying the plant with a solution of water and dish soap.
- Spider Mites: Spider mites can be removed by washing the plant with a strong jet of water or by using a miticide.
- Root Rot: Root rot can be prevented by ensuring that the soil is well-draining and not too wet.
Habitat
Indigofera Capillaris is native to the southeastern United States and can be found in sandy, open areas such as pine woods, sandhills, and savannas. The plant can also be found in disturbed areas such as roadsides and old fields.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Indigofera Capillaris a good plant for attracting pollinators?
A: Yes, Indigofera Capillaris is a good plant for attracting pollinators such as bees and butterflies.
Q: Can Indigofera Capillaris be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Indigofera Capillaris can be grown in containers as long as the container is large enough to accommodate the plant’s root system.
Q: Does Indigofera Capillaris require pruning?
A: Indigofera Capillaris does not require pruning, but it can be pruned to maintain its shape or to remove dead or diseased branches.
Q: Is Indigofera Capillaris toxic to pets?
A: There is no evidence to suggest that Indigofera Capillaris is toxic to pets.
Related Plants
- Indigofera tinctoria
- Indigofera suffruticosa
- Indigofera kirilowii
References
- “Indigofera Capillaris.” Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center, University of Texas at Austin. https://www.wildflower.org/plants/result.php?id_plant=INCA3
- “Indigofera Capillaris.” Florida Native Plant Society. https://www.fnps.org/plants/plant/indigofera-capillaris
- “Indigofera Capillaris.” Missouri Botanical Garden. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=281925&isprofile=0&
