Also known as Prairie False Indigo · White Wild Indigo
Baptisia alba, thick-pod white wild indigo, is a striking perennial with spires of white flowers in late spring to early summer. It's a tough, drought-tolerant plant.
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Full sun to light shade
75% intensity
Prefers at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily for best flowering. Tolerates partial shade.
Drought-tolerant once established
25% intensity
Allow soil to dry between waterings. Water seedlings regularly.
Well-drained
50% intensity
Hardy
25% intensity
Tolerates a wide range of temperatures. USDA Zones 3-9. Protect from extreme heat and cold during establishment.
Low needs
10% intensity
Does not require regular feeding; a nitrogen-fixer. Compost in spring is sufficient.
Safety information from plant toxicity data
| Attribute | Value |
|---|
None
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Water moderately during the establishment period, especially during dry spells. Once established, Baptisia alba is drought-tolerant and prefers to dry out between waterings. Overwatering can lead to root rot.
Ensure well-draining soil to prevent waterlogging.
Prune after flowering to improve appearance and encourage a tidier growth habit. Deadhead spent flower stalks if desired.
Established plants can be cut back to the ground in late winter or early spring before new growth emerges. Remove any winter-damaged stems.
Propagate by seed, sown in autumn or spring. Stratification may improve germination.
Division of established clumps is also possible in early spring, but Baptisia alba dislikes root disturbance and may take time to re-establish. Cuttings can be taken from semi-ripe shoots.
Repotting is generally not recommended for established Baptisia alba due to its deep taproot, which dislikes disturbance. If necessary, seedlings or very young plants can be transplanted in early spring or fall.
Ensure the new location has excellent drainage and ample space.
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Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of Thick-Pod White Wild Indigo (Baptisia alba)
Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Division | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Fabales |
| Family | Fabaceae |
| Genus | Baptisia |
| Species | Baptisia alba |
Similar in genus Baptisia
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data
