Guatemalan Indigo

(Indigofera suffruticosa)

Guatemalan Indigo (Indigofera suffruticosa)

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Estimated Native Range
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Summary

Indigofera suffruticosa, commonly known as Guatemalan Indigo, is an evergreen subshrub native to tropical and subtropical regions of the Americas, including Mexico, the Caribbean, Central America, and South America. It is also found in the southernmost parts of the United States, such as Florida and Louisiana, typically inhabiting open areas, edges of forests, and disturbed sites. This plant reaches a height and width of 2-3 feet (0.6-0.9 meters), presenting a rounded form with small, pinnate leaves and clusters of pink to violet flowers that bloom in the warm months, adding a splash of color to the garden.

Guatemalan Indigo is valued for its historical use in producing indigo dye, which was a major commodity in the trade markets of the past. Today, it is appreciated for its ornamental flowers and its ability to adapt to various soil types. It is used in natural dye gardens, as a border plant, and in butterfly gardens due to its attractiveness to pollinators. It thrives in full sun and requires low to medium amounts of water, making it suitable for xeriscaping. While it can adapt to different soil drainage rates, it prefers well-drained soils. Gardeners should be cautious, as Indigofera suffruticosa can become invasive outside its native range, and it is important to consult local regulations before planting.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

  • Plant Type: Subshrub
  • Height: 2-3 feet
  • Width: 2-3 feet
  • Growth Rate: Rapid
  • Flower Color: Pink
  • Flowering Season: Summer
  • Leaf Retention: Evergreen

Growth Requirements

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

Common Uses

Bee Garden, Bird Garden, Butterfly Garden, Drought Tolerant, Groundcover, Hummingbird Garden

Natural Habitat

Native to tropical and subtropical regions of the Americas, including open areas and disturbed sites

Other Names

Common Names: True Indigo, Anil Indigo, Small-Leaved Indigo, Bengal Indigo, Ceylon Indigo, Indigo Plant, Madras Indigo, West Indian Indigo, Wild Indigo, Anil

Scientific Names: , Indigofera suffruticosa, Indigofera argentea, Indigofera anil, Indigofera suffruticosa subsp. suffruticosa, Indigofera guatimalensis, Indigofera drepanocarpa, Indigofera suffruticosa f. obtusifolia, Indigofera suffruticosa var. canescens, Indigofera uncinata

GBIF Accepted Name: Indigofera suffruticosa Mill.