Plant Details

Amorpha fruticosa

False Indigo Bush

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Purple and orange flowers are an important nectar source for native bees, butterflies and beneficial insects.

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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.

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