Contents
Description
Indigofera Spicata is a perennial flowering plant that belongs to the Fabaceae family. It is native to the tropical regions of Africa and is also found in other parts of the world, including Asia, Australia, and the Americas. The plant has a shrub-like growth habit and can grow up to 1.5 meters in height. The leaves of Indigofera Spicata are pinnate and have a dull green color. The flowers are small, pink to purple in color and are arranged in spikes up to 15cm long.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Fabales |
| Family | Fabaceae |
| Genus | Indigofera |
| Species | Spicata |
Appearance
Indigofera Spicata is a shrub-like plant that can grow up to 1.5 meters in height. The leaves are pinnate and have a dull green color. The flowers are small, pink to purple in color and are arranged in spikes up to 15cm long. The plant has a woody stem and branches, and the bark is grayish-brown in color. The roots of Indigofera Spicata are able to fix nitrogen, which means that the plant can grow in nutrient-poor soils.
Care Guide
Indigofera Spicata is a low-maintenance plant that requires minimal care. Here are some tips for caring for your Indigofera Spicata:- Water: Indigofera Spicata prefers well-drained soil and doesn’t like to be waterlogged. Water the plant once a week or when the soil feels dry to the touch.- Fertilization: Indigofera Spicata doesn’t require frequent fertilization. Apply a slow-release fertilizer once a year in the spring.- Soil: Indigofera Spicata prefers well-drained, slightly acidic soil. If you’re planting in a container, use a potting mix that contains perlite or vermiculite to improve drainage.- Sunlight: Indigofera Spicata prefers full sun but can also tolerate partial shade.- Hardiness Zones: Indigofera Spicata is hardy in USDA zones 9-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Indigofera Spicata is generally free from pests and diseases. However, it can be susceptible to spider mites and aphids. To prevent infestations, keep the plant well-watered and free from dust. If you notice any signs of infestation, treat the plant with an insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Habitat
Indigofera Spicata is native to the tropical regions of Africa and is also found in other parts of the world, including Asia, Australia, and the Americas. The plant grows in a variety of habitats, including savannas, woodlands, and disturbed areas. Indigofera Spicata can tolerate drought and poor soils and is often used in land reclamation projects.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Indigofera Spicata poisonous?
A: No, Indigofera Spicata is not poisonous.
Q: Can Indigofera Spicata be grown in a container?
A: Yes, Indigofera Spicata can be grown in a container as long as the pot has good drainage.
Q: Does Indigofera Spicata attract bees?
A: Yes, Indigofera Spicata is a nectar source for bees and other pollinators.
Q: How often should I prune Indigofera Spicata?
A: Prune Indigofera Spicata in the late winter or early spring before new growth appears. Remove any dead or damaged branches and shape the plant as desired.
Related Plants
– Indigofera tinctoria- Indigofera suffruticosa- Indigofera decora- Indigofera heterantha- Indigofera arrecta
References
– “Indigofera Spicata.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed 28 July 2021. http://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=c485.- “Indigofera Spicata.” PlantZAfrica. Accessed 28 July 2021. http://pza.sanbi.org/indigofera-spicata.
