River Indigo

(Indigofera jucunda)

River Indigo (Indigofera jucunda)

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Estimated Native Range
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Summary

Indigofera jucunda, commonly known as River Indigo, Natal Indigo, or Pink Indigo, is a deciduous shrub native to the forest margins, thickets, and rocky outcrops of Southern Africa, particularly within the Eastern Cape and KwaZulu-Natal provinces. It exhibits a moderate growth rate, reaching a typical height and width of 4-6 feet (1.2-1.8 meters). The plant is characterized by its compound leaves and dense clusters of pink, pea-like flowers that are quite showy and bloom profusely from late spring to summer, attracting pollinators. The foliage is bright green, adding to the plant’s ornamental value.

River Indigo is valued for its attractive flowers and ability to adapt to various garden settings. It is used in borders, as a specimen plant, or for informal hedging. It is relatively easy to maintain, requiring medium amounts of water and thriving in a range of soil types, including clay, loam, and sandy soils, provided they have medium drainage. It prefers full sun to part shade, which encourages the best flowering. While generally pest-free, it can occasionally suffer from fungal diseases in overly moist conditions. River Indigo is not known for being invasive but should be monitored as it can self-seed in ideal conditions.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

  • Plant Type: Shrub
  • Height: 4-6 feet
  • Width: 3-6 feet
  • Growth Rate: Moderate
  • Flower Color: Cream, Pink
  • Flowering Season: Spring, Summer
  • Leaf Retention: Deciduous

Growth Requirements

  • Sun: Full Sun, Part Shade
  • Water: Medium
  • Drainage: Medium

Common Uses

Border Plant, Butterfly Garden, Fragrant, Low Maintenance, Potted Plant, Showy Flowers

Natural Habitat

Forest margins, thickets, and rocky outcrops within the Eastern Cape and KwaZulu-Natal provinces of Southern Africa

Other Names

Common Names: Natal Indigo, Pink Indigo

Scientific Names: , Indigofera jucunda, Indigofera cylindrica,

GBIF Accepted Name: