Baptisia sphaerocarpa aka Yellow Wild Indigo

Baptisia sphaerocarpa is known as yellow wild indigo or yellow false indigo. This herbaceous perennial belongs to the pea family, Fabaceae. Its native range runs from the central United States to Louisiana. Chicago Botanic Garden places it from Missouri south to Louisiana and Texas. It grows in temperate climates and forms a leafy clump. The plant loses its leaves for winter.

Garden plants reach about 2–3.3 feet [0.6–1 metre] tall. RHS gives a spread up to 1.6 feet [0.5 metres]. The plant forms a mound, with leaves on upright stems. Each blue-green leaf has three leaflets that look like clover. Small, bright yellow, pea-like flowers rise above the leaves. They grow along tall clusters on yellow-green flower stems. Bloom runs from May to June, spanning late spring and early summer. The flowers draw butterflies to the garden.

Swollen seed pods follow the flowers and add interest after bloom. The pods start pale green, then turn tan or brown. Gardeners can use these pods in dried flower arrangements. The flowers also suit cutting for fresh displays. Plant it alone or in small groups in borders. It also fits cottage gardens, meadows, and prairie plantings. Native plant gardens and less formal settings suit its form. Missouri Botanical Garden also lists resistance to erosion and dry soil.

Give this plant an open site with full sun. It can also grow in part shade. Deep soil with good drainage suits it best. RHS prefers sandy soil but also lists loam and chalk. It accepts acid, neutral, and alkaline soil conditions. Dry to moderately moist soil meets its water needs. Mature plants cope well with drought once their roots settle. Chicago Botanic Garden also reports tolerance of heat and humidity. Sources place it in USDA zones 5–8 and RHS hardiness class H7.

Care needs are low, and routine pruning is not needed. Plants may settle in slowly and dislike root disturbance. RHS gives two to five years to reach full size. Raise new plants from seed, softwood cuttings, or semi-ripe cuttings. Seed-grown plants may need several years before they flower. Serious pest and disease problems are not usual. Avoid planting near black walnut trees, where juglone can harm growth.