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Amorpha nana
Common Name Dwarf Indigo Bush
Family Leguminosae (Pea Family)

Description

Perennial shrub has lovely purple flowers arranged as spikes emerging from the top of the plant. Interesting foliage.

Range

Great Plains regions. Elevation: 3,500 - 4,500ft.

Culture

Dry, well drained soils in full sun. This shrub is very drought tolerant. Zones 4 - 6.

Value

This is the smallest cousin of larger species, A. canescens and the rather ugly A. fruticosa, that has pleasantly fine-textured foliage capped with attractive spikes of purple flower. A worthy plant for the low water landscape. A. nana is not common in the trade, while A. fruticosa is.

Propagation

Sow seeds after treatment and cover to depth. Hot water treat with a 48 hour soak in hottest tap water, then a cold treatment for 30 to 60 days. Some fresh seed may germinate following the hot water treatment. If a large percentage of seed swell and/or germinate (about 70% +) after 48 hours of treatment sow directly without a cold treatment. To sow outdoors place in the desired location in the fall and cover with ¼" of soil. Look for results the following spring. Cuttings can also be taken.