Indigo (Indigofera tinctoria) is a tropical and subtropical shrub admired for its graceful compound leaves and clusters of soft pink flowers. Growing as a perennial shrub in hot climates and an annual in cooler regions, it brings fine texture and seasonal color to borders, hedge rows, and container landscapes. Its bloom spikes attract bees, adding ecological value to its ornamental beauty. Indigo performs best in warm, sunny areas and thrives even in dry, sandy soils once established.
Features
• Ornamental shrub with delicate compound green foliage
• Pink summer bloom clusters attract bees and beneficial insects
• Performs as a perennial in warm climates or annual in cooler zones
• Excellent for warm-climate hedges, borders, and mixed landscapes
• Thrives in full sun with dry, sandy, or well-drained soils
• Non-GMO Indigofera tinctoria seed variety
Specifications
• Common Name: Indigo
• Scientific Name: Indigofera tinctoria
• Plant Type: Perennial shrub (annual in cold regions)
• USDA Zones: 9–12 (perennial); 4–8 (grown as annual)
• Flower Color: Pink to rose
• Foliage Color: Fine, compound green leaves
• Bloom Season: Summer
• Height: 24–48 inches (cool climates) / 4–6 feet (warm climates)
• Spread: 24–48 inches
• Growth Habit: Upright, multi-stem, shrubby form
• Heirloom: Yes
• GMO Status: Non-GMO
• Organic: Not certified organic
• Light Requirements: Full sun
• Soil Preference: Sandy, gritty, or well-drained soil
• Water Needs: Low to moderate; drought tolerant when established
• Pollinator Value: Supports bees & beneficial insects
• Maintenance Level: Low
• Plant Spacing: 24–36 inches
• Seed Viability: 2–3 years stored cool & dry
Planting Guide
• Start indoors 6–8 weeks before last frost or sow outdoors in warm climates.
• Lightly scarify seeds or soak 6–12 hours before planting.
• Plant seeds 1/4–1/2 inch deep in warm soil (70–85°F).
• Keep soil slightly moist until germination (14–28 days).
• Transplant only after warm weather is stable and frost-free.
• Choose full sun and well-drained, even sandy soil.
• Water sparingly once established; prefers dry conditions in heat.
• In cold zones, grow as a warm-season annual or container shrub.
