Dwarf False Indigo

(Amorpha nana)

Dwarf False Indigo (Amorpha nana)

/

return to results
Previous Plant Next Plant

/

Amorpha nana image
scroll forward scroll backward
scroll forward scroll backward
Estimated Native Range
Species Map Help

Summary

Amorpha nana, commonly known as Dwarf False Indigo, is a deciduous subshrub native to the North American Great Plains, particularly found in prairies and open grasslands. It typically grows to a height of 1–3 feet (30–91 cm) and is characterized by its vibrant green pinnate leaves and clusters of small, purple, pea-like flowers that bloom in late spring to early summer. The flowers are highly attractive to pollinators and are followed by small, non-descript pods. Dwarf False Indigo’s compact size and showy blooms make it a popular choice for native plant gardens, rock gardens, and borders.

Dwarf False Indigo is valued for its drought tolerance and ability to thrive in poor, rocky, or sandy soils, making it an excellent plant for xeriscaping. It requires full sun to flourish and prefers soils with good drainage. While it is low-maintenance, it can be susceptible to root rot in overly wet conditions. This plant is also used for its nitrogen-fixing properties, which can improve soil fertility.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

  • Plant Type: Subshrub, Shrub
  • Height: 1-2 feet
  • Width: 1-2 feet
  • Growth Rate: Moderate
  • Flower Color: Purple
  • Flowering Season: Spring
  • Leaf Retention: Deciduous

Growth Requirements

  • Sun: Full Sun
  • Water: Low, Medium
  • Drainage: Slow, Medium

Common Uses

Bee Garden, Bird Garden, Butterfly Garden, Deer Resistant, Drought Tolerant, Erosion Control, Hummingbird Garden, Low Maintenance, Rock Garden, Showy Flowers

Natural Habitat

Native to the Great Plains and open grasslands of North America

Other Names

Common Names: Dwarf Indigo, Dwarf Indigobush, Fragrant Indigo-Bush, Fragrant False Indigo, Dwarf Wild Indigo

Scientific Names: , Amorpha nana, Amorpha microphylla, Amorpha punctata,

GBIF Accepted Name: Amorpha nana Nutt.