Plant Profile: Indigofera incarnata

Often referred to as Chinese indigo, this deciduous shrub thrives along streams and in woodlands across its native regions of Japan and China. It prefers average, well-drained soil that is neutral to slightly alkaline, with medium moisture levels. While it can tolerate sun, heat, and drought, it benefits from afternoon shade in hot and humid conditions. Additionally, severe winters may cause damage to the tips of its branches. Since it blooms on new growth, it is advisable to prune it back to the ground or to healthy growth early in spring or even late in winter.

This indigo typically spreads to a width of 3 to 4 feet and reaches a height of 1 to 2.5 feet. Its dark green leaves consist of 8-inch pinnate leaflets, which can be utilized for producing indigo dye. The primary flowering period occurs in June and July, with sporadic blooms potentially extending into September. The flowers, resembling peas, are arranged in narrow racemes measuring 4 to 8 inches in length.