Plains Wild Indigo, Longbract wild indigo, False Indigo, Cream Wild Indigo

Baptisia bracteata

Physical Characteristics

Baptisia bracteata is a PERENNIAL growing to 0.7 m (2ft 4in) by 0.6 m (2ft) at a medium rate. See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 5. It is in flower from May to June, and the seeds ripen from August to September. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs). It can fix Nitrogen. Suitable for: light (sandy) and medium (loamy) soils and prefers well-drained soil. Suitable pH: mildly acid and neutral soils. It cannot grow in the shade. It prefers dry or moist soil.

Distribution

Eastern N. America - Arkansas, Texas and Nebraska to Minnesota.

Habitats

Cultivated Beds;

Edible Uses

None known

Medicinal Uses

Alterative Astringent An ointment made from the ground seeds is applied to the stomach in the treatment of colic[222]. A tea made from the roots is used in the treatment of typhoid and scarlet fever[222]. The leaves are astringent and are applied externally to wounds etc[222]. Recent research suggests that the plant can stimulate the immune system[222].

Known Hazards

The plant is potentially toxic[222].