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Description
Indigofera Hirsuta is a species of flowering plant that belongs to the Fabaceae family. It is native to Asia and Africa and is commonly found in India, Sri Lanka, and Madagascar. The plant is an annual or perennial herb that can grow up to 60 cm in height. It has a slender stem and branches that are covered with soft hairs. The leaves are pinnate and consist of 7-9 leaflets. The flowers are pink to purple in color and bloom in clusters. The plant produces small, flat, oblong pods that contain small, black seeds.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Fabales |
| Family | Fabaceae |
| Genus | Indigofera |
| Species | Hirsuta |
Appearance
Indigofera Hirsuta has a slender stem and branches that are covered with soft hairs. The leaves are pinnate and consist of 7-9 leaflets that are oblong in shape. The flowers are pink to purple in color and bloom in clusters. The plant produces small, flat, oblong pods that contain small, black seeds. The plant can grow up to 60 cm in height.
Care Guide
Indigofera Hirsuta requires moderate watering and well-draining soil. It prefers full sun to partial shade and can tolerate a wide range of temperatures. It can be grown in hardiness zones 9-11. Fertilize the plant with a balanced fertilizer during the growing season. Prune the plant regularly to promote bushy growth.
Common Pests & Diseases
Indigofera Hirsuta is susceptible to root rot, powdery mildew, and leaf spot. Pests like aphids, spider mites, and whiteflies can also infest the plant. To prevent these problems, ensure that the soil is well-draining and avoid overwatering. Trim off any infected leaves or branches and use insecticidal soap to control pests.
Habitat
Indigofera Hirsuta is native to Asia and Africa and is commonly found in India, Sri Lanka, and Madagascar. It grows in a variety of habitats, including grasslands, forests, and disturbed areas.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Indigofera Hirsuta be grown indoors?
A: Yes, Indigofera Hirsuta can be grown indoors in a sunny location.
Q: Is Indigofera Hirsuta a medicinal plant?
A: Yes, Indigofera Hirsuta has been traditionally used for its medicinal properties.
Q: How often should Indigofera Hirsuta be fertilized?
A: Indigofera Hirsuta should be fertilized once a month during the growing season.
Q: How often should Indigofera Hirsuta be pruned?
A: Indigofera Hirsuta should be pruned regularly to promote bushy growth.
Related Plants
- Indigofera tinctoria
- Indigofera suffruticosa
- Indigofera arrecta
References
- “Indigofera Hirsuta.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=a574
- “Indigofera Hirsuta – Plant Finder.” Dave’s Garden, www.davesgarden.com/guides/pf/go/190256/
- “Indigofera Hirsuta.” Plants of the World Online, www.plantsoftheworldonline.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:506781-1
