Indigo Bush Seeds

Indigo Bush

(Amorpha fruticosa)

Amorpha fruticosa, commonly known as Indigo Bush, is a deciduous shrub native to North America. It typically grows along riverbanks, floodplains, and wetlands, thriving in moist, well-drained soils but also tolerating a range of conditions, including poor or sandy soils. The plant can reach heights of 6 to 12 feet and spreads easily through root suckers, forming dense thickets.

This shrub is easily recognized by its pinnately compound leaves and its striking flower spikes, which bloom in late spring to early summer. The flowers are deep purple with bright orange stamens, giving them a distinctive and attractive appearance. Although the flowers are not fragrant, they are rich in nectar and attract a wide variety of pollinators, including bees and butterflies.

Amorpha fruticosa is part of the legume family (Fabaceae) and has nitrogen-fixing abilities, which helps improve soil fertility. It is often used in erosion control and restoration projects due to its rapid growth and ability to stabilize soils. Despite its ecological benefits, in some regions outside its native range it is considered invasive, as it can outcompete native vegetation.

The plant also has a history of medicinal and practical use. Native American tribes used parts of the plant for various treatments, and its bark and leaves were sometimes used to stun fish in shallow waters. While not widely cultivated in ornamental gardening, it is occasionally used in naturalized landscapes and habitat gardens for its unique appearance and ecological value.

Zones: 4 to 9

Germination Range: 60-80%

Stratification Requirement: Hot water treat or scarify for 8 minutes then cold stratify 30-60 days.

Planting Instructions:

Before sowing, it's essential to scarify the seeds to improve germination. This can be done by gently nicking the seed coat with a file or soaking the seeds in hot water (not boiling) for 12 to 24 hours to soften the hard outer shell. Once scarified, plant the seeds in a well-drained seed-starting mix, pressing them lightly into the soil and covering them with a thin layer of soil, about a quarter inch deep. Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. Place the container in a sunny location or under grow lights, maintaining a temperature around 70°F (21°C). Germination usually occurs within two to four weeks.

After the seedlings develop several true leaves and are strong enough to handle, transplant them into individual pots or directly into the ground in a sunny to partially shaded spot with well-drained soil. Regular watering is important until the plants are established, but Amorpha fruticosa is drought-tolerant once mature.