Growing Blue False Indigo - Benefits and Instructions
Benefits of Growing Blue False Indigo
-
Pollinator- The stunning flowers of the Blue false indigo is very beneficial for many pollinators, specifically honey bees.
- Soil Fixer - Blue false Indigo is in the legume family, making it a natural nitrogen fixing plant.
-
Pest Resistant: The alkaloids produced by this plant are toxic to many insect species, making it almost completely pest resistant. Deer and rabbits will not bother these plants when they are larger, but have been known to snack on small shoots.
Growing Instructions
Culture:
Harvesting:
To harvest the seeds of the blue false indigo wait until the seed pods turn black and begin to open on their own. You will know the seeds are ready to harvest because it will sound like a rattle when you shake them. Remove the seeds from the pods and store for next season, or plant seeds in the fall for spring.
Toxicity Warning:
This plant is listed as toxic. If ingested it can cause blurred vision, vomiting and vertigo. Keep cats and dogs from consuming this plant as well as it is likely toxic if they consume it.
Companions:
Echinacea, coreopsis, columbine, liatris and foxglove.