Blue False Indigo is a native herbaceous perennial plant in the bean family (Fabaceae) native to central and eastern North America that grows in forests or natural areas in woodland borders. The species epithet, australis, is Latin for “southern” and refers to the earlier belief that this species was confined to the Southeast. In fact, its distribution is throughout the eastern US.

This clump-forming plant grows 3 to 4 feet tall and 2 to 4 feet wide in full sun to part shade but best blooming is in full sun and in average well-drained soil. The deep tap root makes it drought tolerant but difficult to transplant. Prune after flowering if seed pods are not desired and to shape. Propagation is by seeds or stem cuttings.

The bright, indigo blue flowers are attractive when combined with yellow or white flowering perennials. The foliage stays attractive throughout the season.

This plant was selected as the 1992 NC Wildflower of the Year, a program managed by the North Carolina Botanical Garden with some financial support from the Garden Club of North Carolina.

Use this plant in the native, pollinator or drought-tolerant garden as a specimen or in the border.