Yellow wild indigo is a native herbaceous perennial in the bean family (Fabaceae) native to eastern North America. This plant is sometimes called a rattleweed because of the ripe pods’ rattling noise. Tintoria means dye in Latin, referring to dyes that were created from this plant.

This shrub grows 2 to 3 feet tall and wide in full sun to light shade in well-drained garden soils. The deep tap root makes it drought-tolerant but difficult to transplant. It tolerates poor soils, dry soils, and erosion.

The bright yellow flowers appear in late spring to early summer in clusters above the foliage and are sometimes sparse. The foliage is gray-green and stays attractive throughout the season.

Plant in a woodland, cottage, native, or meadow garden as a specimen or in small groups. Showier false indigos are available, and this plant may be best used in a naturalized area.