Blue False Indigo, Baptisia australis, is an upright perennial which typically grows 3-4 feet tall and occurs in rich woods, thickets and along streambanks. It features purple, lupine-like flowers in erect racemes atop flower spikes extending well above a foliage mound of clover-like, trifoliate, bluish-green leaves. Blooms in spring and the flowers give way to inflated seed pods which turn charcoal black when ripe and have considerable ornamental interest. The root system consists of a branching taproot that often forms clonal offsets.
Habitats include rocky open woodlands, gravel prairies, and rocky banks of rivers. Occasional wildfires are probably beneficial in maintaining populations of this plant by reducing competition from woody vegetation.
Easily grown in average, dry to medium, well-drained soil in full sun to part shade. Best in full sun. Tolerates drought and poor soils. Over time, plants develop slowly expanding clumps with deep and extensive root systems, and should not be disturbed once established. May be grown from seed, but takes several years to establish. Plants take on more of a shrubby appearance and tend to open up after bloom.
Taller plants may need support, particularly when grown in part shade locations.
Seeds rattle around in the blackened pods which were once popularly used by children as rattles.
Stems with seed pods are valued additions to dried flower arrangements.
Trimming or shearing foliage after bloom helps maintain rounded plant appearance and obviates a possible need for staking.