Indigofera Heterophylla
Contents
Description
Indigofera Heterophylla, also known as Variable-leaf Indigo, is a flowering plant that belongs to the Fabaceae family. It is native to the southeastern United States, where it thrives in wetlands, meadows, and along riverbanks. This deciduous shrub can grow up to 6 feet tall and 6 feet wide, and it produces beautiful pink and purple flowers in the summer months.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Fabales |
| Family | Fabaceae |
| Genus | Indigofera |
Appearance
Indigofera Heterophylla has a shrubby, rounded form with multiple stems. The leaves are pinnately compound, with 5-9 leaflets that can range from oval to lance-shaped. The flowers grow in long, slender clusters that can reach up to 6 inches in length. They are pink or purple in color and have a distinctive tubular shape. The plant also produces small, oblong seedpods that turn brown as they mature.
Care Guide
Water: Indigofera Heterophylla prefers moist soil, so it should be watered regularly. However, it can tolerate some drought once established. Fertilization: This plant does not require much fertilization, but it can benefit from a slow-release fertilizer in the spring. Soil: Indigofera Heterophylla prefers well-drained, slightly acidic soil. Sunlight: This plant prefers full sun to partial shade. Hardiness Zones: Indigofera Heterophylla is hardy in USDA zones 6-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Indigofera Heterophylla is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, it can be susceptible to root rot if the soil is too wet.
Habitat
Indigofera Heterophylla is native to the southeastern United States, where it can be found in wetlands, meadows, and along riverbanks. It prefers moist, well-drained soil and can tolerate some flooding.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Indigofera Heterophylla deer-resistant?
A: Yes, this plant is generally deer-resistant. Q: Can Indigofera Heterophylla be grown in containers?
A: Yes, this plant can be grown in containers, but it will need regular watering. Q: How often should Indigofera Heterophylla be pruned?
A: This plant does not require much pruning, but it can be trimmed in the spring to maintain its shape. Q: Is Indigofera Heterophylla toxic to pets?
A: There is no evidence to suggest that this plant is toxic to pets, but it is always best to err on the side of caution and keep it out of reach.
Related Plants
- Indigofera tinctoria
- Indigofera suffruticosa
- Indigofera kirilowii
References
- “Indigofera Heterophylla.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=279973&isprofile=0&pt=2.
- “Variable-leaf Indigo.” North Carolina State Extension, content.ces.ncsu.edu/variableleaf-indigo.
- “Indigofera Heterophylla.” Floridata, www.floridata.com/Plants/Fabaceae/Indigofera%20heterophylla/864.
