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Description
Indigofera Suffruticosa, also known as Brazilian indigo or anil, is a perennial shrub that belongs to the Fabaceae family. This plant is native to South America, specifically Brazil, and has been cultivated for centuries for its blue dye. The dye extracted from the leaves of this plant was used by ancient civilizations to color fabrics.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Fabales |
| Family | Fabaceae |
| Genus | Indigofera |
Appearance
Indigofera Suffruticosa grows up to 1.5 meters tall and has a spread of up to 1 meter. The leaves are pinnate, with 9-17 leaflets that are oblong and about 1-2 cm long. The flowers are pink to purple, and grow in dense spikes at the end of the branches. The plant blooms from late spring to early summer. The fruit is a pod that is about 2-3 cm long and contains several seeds.
Care Guide
Indigofera Suffruticosa is a low-maintenance plant that is easy to care for. It prefers well-draining soil and full sun, but can tolerate partial shade. This plant is drought-tolerant and does not require frequent watering, but should be watered deeply when the soil is dry. Fertilization is not necessary, but can be beneficial in poor soils. This plant is hardy in USDA zones 9-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Indigofera Suffruticosa is generally pest and disease-free, but can be affected by spider mites, whiteflies, and aphids. These pests can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil. Root rot can occur in poorly-draining soil or if the plant is overwatered.
Habitat
Indigofera Suffruticosa is native to Brazil, but has been introduced to other parts of South America, as well as Central America and the Caribbean. This plant grows in a variety of habitats, from dry scrublands to rainforests.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Indigofera Suffruticosa toxic?
A: No, this plant is not toxic.
Q: Can I use the leaves of Indigofera Suffruticosa to make dye?
A: Yes, the leaves of this plant can be used to make a blue dye.
Q: How often should I water Indigofera Suffruticosa?
A: This plant should be watered deeply when the soil is dry, but does not require frequent watering.
Q: How tall does Indigofera Suffruticosa grow?
A: This plant can grow up to 1.5 meters tall.
Related Plants
- Indigofera tinctoria
- Indigofera arrecta
- Indigofera intricata
- Indigofera hirsuta
References
- Indigofera suffruticosa. (n.d.). Retrieved September 20, 2021, from https://www.rareplants.es/shop/product.asp?P_ID=10004&strPageHistory=related
- Indigofera suffruticosa. (n.d.). Retrieved September 20, 2021, from https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/shrubs/indigo/brazilian-indigo-information.htm
- Indigofera suffruticosa. (n.d.). Retrieved September 20, 2021, from https://www.fs.fed.us/global/iitf/pdf/shrubs/Indigofera%20suffruticosa.pdf
