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Description
Indigofera Kirilowii, commonly known as Kirilow indigo or Chinese indigo, is a deciduous flowering shrub that belongs to the Fabaceae family. It is native to China and is widely grown in other parts of the world for its ornamental value and medicinal properties. The plant grows up to 3-4 feet tall and has a spread of 2-3 feet. It has smooth, grayish-green stems and small, pinnate leaves that are dark green in color. The plant produces small, pink to purple flowers in dense clusters that bloom from late spring to early summer.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Fabales |
| Family | Fabaceae |
| Genus | Indigofera |
Appearance
The Kirilow indigo is a beautiful and ornamental plant that adds color and texture to any garden or landscape. Its leaves are pinnate and consist of 7-9 leaflets that are arranged in a feather-like pattern. The leaves are dark green in color and have a glossy appearance. The plant produces small, pink to purple flowers that are arranged in dense clusters, which are about 1 inch long. The flowers bloom from late spring to early summer, and the plant continues to produce flowers throughout the growing season. The fruit of the plant is a small, brown pod that contains seeds.
Care Guide
The Kirilow indigo is a relatively easy plant to care for and maintain. Here are some tips for keeping your plant healthy:
- Water: The plant requires regular watering, especially during the growing season. Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged.
- Fertilization: Fertilize the plant with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in the spring and summer.
- Soil: The plant prefers well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter.
- Sunlight: The plant prefers full sun to partial shade.
- Hardiness Zones: The plant is hardy in USDA zones 7-10.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Kirilow indigo is relatively resistant to pests and diseases. However, it may be susceptible to root rot if the soil is waterlogged. Here are some common pests and diseases to look out for:
- Aphids: These small insects can cause damage to the leaves of the plant.
- Spider mites: These tiny pests can cause discoloration and damage to the leaves of the plant.
- Root rot: This fungal disease can occur if the soil is waterlogged or if the plant is overwatered.
Habitat
The Kirilow indigo is native to China and is widely grown in other parts of the world for its ornamental value and medicinal properties. The plant grows well in well-drained soil and prefers full sun to partial shade. It is hardy in USDA zones 7-10 and can withstand temperatures as low as 0°F.
Question and Answer
Q: Is the Kirilow indigo a medicinal plant?
A: Yes, the Kirilow indigo has been used in traditional Chinese medicine to treat a variety of ailments, including inflammation, fever, and skin disorders.
Q: Can the Kirilow indigo be grown in containers?
A: Yes, the plant can be grown in containers as long as the container is large enough to accommodate the plant’s roots.
Q: How often should I fertilize my Kirilow indigo?
A: Fertilize the plant with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in the spring and summer.
Q: Does the Kirilow indigo attract bees and butterflies?
A: Yes, the plant’s flowers are attractive to bees and butterflies.
Related Plants
- Indigofera tinctoria
- Indigofera heterantha
- Indigofera decora
- Indigofera pseudotinctoria
References
- “Indigofera kirilowii.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed October 21, 2021. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=287605&isprofile=0&.
- “Indigofera kirilowii.” PlantFiles. Accessed October 21, 2021. https://davesgarden.com/guides/pf/go/68287/.
- “Indigofera kirilowii – Kirilow Indigo.” Plant Delights Nursery. Accessed October 21, 2021. https://www.plantdelights.com/products/indigofera-kirilowii.
