Indigofera Meyeriana
Indigofera Meyeriana, commonly known as Meyer’s Indigo, is a flowering plant in the Fabaceae family. It is native to Tanzania and Kenya and can grow up to 5 feet tall. The plant has a long blooming period from early summer to early fall and produces pink to purple flowers that attract bees and butterflies.
Contents
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophytes |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Fabales |
| Family | Fabaceae |
| Genus | Indigofera |
Appearance
Meyer’s Indigo has a bushy growth habit and can reach up to 5 feet tall and wide. The plant has compound leaves with up to 11 leaflets that are oval-shaped and a blue-green color. The flowers are produced in long spikes and are pink to purple in color. The plant produces seed pods that are about 1 inch long and contain several seeds.
Care Guide
Meyer’s Indigo requires regular watering and well-draining soil. The plant prefers full sun but can tolerate some shade. It is hardy in USDA zones 9-11. Fertilize the plant in the spring and summer with a balanced fertilizer. Prune the plant in the early spring to promote bushy growth.
Common Pests & Diseases
Meyer’s Indigo is generally not susceptible to pests or diseases. However, it may be affected by spider mites, aphids, or whiteflies. Treat infestations with insecticidal soap or neem oil. The plant may also be affected by root rot if overwatered.
Habitat
Meyer’s Indigo is native to Tanzania and Kenya and is commonly found in grasslands, savannas, and open woodlands. The plant prefers well-draining soil and can tolerate drought conditions.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Meyer’s Indigo a good plant for attracting pollinators to the garden?
A: Yes, Meyer’s Indigo produces flowers that attract bees and butterflies.
Q: How often should I water Meyer’s Indigo?
A: Water Meyer’s Indigo regularly, but do not overwater. Allow the soil to dry out slightly between waterings.
Q: Can Meyer’s Indigo be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Meyer’s Indigo can be grown in containers as long as the container has good drainage.
Q: Does Meyer’s Indigo have any medicinal uses?
A: Yes, Meyer’s Indigo has been used in traditional medicine to treat a variety of ailments including inflammation and skin conditions.
Related Plants
- Indigofera tinctoria
- Indigofera heterantha
- Indigofera suffruticosa
References
- “Indigofera meyeriana.” Missouri Botanical Garden. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=286832.
- “Indigofera meyeriana.” PlantZAfrica. http://pza.sanbi.org/indigofera-meyeriana.
