Amorpha fruticosa
False Indigo Bush
Purple and orange flowers are an important nectar source for native bees, butterflies and beneficial insects.
Description:
This flowering perennial shrub averages 6-10 feet tall, and can form dense thickets. A member of the Pea family, it features characteristic pinnately compound leaves, offering a fine textured appearance. However, its flower does not conform to characteristic Pea Family flowers. In May-June, clusters of purple petals contrasting with bright orange anthers rise on spikelike branches above the foliage. Grows in well-drained soils in full sun to partial shade. Tolerates occasional flooding, as well as poor sandy soil; adaptable. Fruit pods mature in July-August. Useful as erosion control, wind breaks and privacy screens. Although currently listed as native to New Jersey, its historic range excludes the northeast; it is considered weedy and invasive in Connecticut and Maine.It’s native status may change as botanists continue their research.
Wildlife Value: Important nectar source for native bees, butterflies and beneficial insects. Larval host plant to several butterflies including: California & southern dogfaces, Silver-spotted Skipper (Epargyreus clarus), Gray hairstreak, and Hoary edge skipper.
Plant Details:
Other Scientific Names: Amorpha fruticosa, Amorpha angustifolia
Other Common Names: Indigo Bush
Plant Type: Flower, Perennial, Shrub
New Jersey Native: Yes
Bloom Times: Summer
Bloom Colors: Orange, Purple
Deer Resistance: Some
Attracts Pollinators and Wildlife: Bees and Other Pollinators, Butterflies
Salt Tolerance: Unknown
Hardiness Zone: 6a, 6b, 7a, 7b
Physiographic Region: All Regions in NJ
Soil Characteristics
Soil Type: Loam, Organic, Sandy
Soil Moisture: Dry, Moist
Soil pH: Slightly Acidic, Neutral, Slightly Alkaline
Light Needs of Plant
Optimal Light: Full Sun
Light Range: Full Sun, Partial Shade
Water Needs of Plant
Soil Moisture: Dry, Moist
Drought Tolerance: Medium
Size and Growth Rate
Height: 4 - 12 ft
Spread: 6 - 15 ft
Growth Rate: Medium