Indigofera Zeyheri

Description

Indigofera Zeyheri, also known as Zeyher’s Indigo or Zeyher’s Wild Indigo, is a deciduous shrub that is native to South Africa. It belongs to the Fabaceae family and can grow up to 2 meters tall. The plant has thin stems and small leaves that are compound and alternate. Its flowers are pinkish-purple and have a pea-like shape. The shrub blooms from late spring to early summer and produces seed pods that are about 5 cm long.

Taxonomic Information

Appearance

Indigofera Zeyheri is a striking shrub that adds great ornamental value to any garden. The plant has a dense growth habit and can reach a height of 2 meters. Its leaves are small and compound, with each leaflet measuring about 1 cm in length. The flowers are pinkish-purple and grow in clusters. They are about 1 cm long and have a pea-like shape. The plant blooms from late spring to early summer and produces seed pods that are about 5 cm long.

Care Guide

Indigofera Zeyheri is a hardy shrub that requires minimal care. Here are some tips for growing and maintaining this plant:

• Water: The plant requires moderate watering. Water the plant once a week during the growing season and reduce watering during the winter months.
• Fertilization: Indigofera Zeyheri does not require frequent fertilization. Use a slow-release fertilizer once a year in the spring.
• Soil: The plant prefers well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. It can grow in a variety of soil types, including sandy and loamy soils.
• Sunlight: Indigofera Zeyheri requires full sunlight to thrive. Plant the shrub in an area that receives at least 6 hours of sunlight a day.
• Hardiness Zones: The plant can grow in USDA hardiness zones 8-11.

Common Pests & Diseases

Indigofera Zeyheri is generally not susceptible to pests and diseases. However, the plant can be affected by root rot if it is planted in poorly-drained soil. To prevent root rot, ensure that the soil is well-drained and avoid overwatering the plant.

Habitat

Indigofera Zeyheri is native to South Africa and can be found in a variety of habitats, including grasslands, savannas, and forests. The plant prefers well-drained soils and can grow in areas with low to moderate rainfall.

Question and Answer

Here are some frequently asked questions about Indigofera Zeyheri:

• Q: Is Indigofera Zeyheri toxic?
• A: No, the plant is not toxic and is safe to handle.
• Q: Can Indigofera Zeyheri be grown in containers?
• A: Yes, the plant can be grown in containers. Ensure that the container has adequate drainage and use a well-draining potting mix.
• Q: Does Indigofera Zeyheri attract wildlife?
• A: Yes, the plant attracts bees and butterflies.
• Q: Can Indigofera Zeyheri be propagated from cuttings?
• A: Yes, the plant can be propagated from softwood cuttings taken in the spring or early summer.

Related Plants

Here are some plants that are related to Indigofera Zeyheri:

• Indigofera tinctoria
• Indigofera suffruticosa
• Indigofera australis
• Indigofera heterantha

References

1. “Indigofera Zeyheri.” PlantZAfrica. South African National Biodiversity Institute, n.d. Web. 13 May 2021.
2. “Indigofera Zeyheri.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Missouri Botanical Garden, n.d. Web. 13 May 2021.
3. “Indigofera Zeyheri.” Plant of the Week. University of Arkansas Division of Agriculture, n.d. Web. 13 May 2021.