Hybrid Wild Indigo
Baptisia 'Purple Smoke'
Fabaceae
Growth habit
Herbaceous
Perennation
Long-lived polycarpic perennial
Biocultural value
The species of this Native American perennial was used by indigenous people to purge the bowels. The roots brewed into a tea induce vomiting and are a strong laxative.
Location
Houston and Grossman Ponds, Robison Herb Garden, Mullestein Winter Garden
Source of plant
Big Dipper Farm, Garden Crossings, North Creek Nurseries, Klyn Nurseries, Plant Delights
Description
Plants are exceptionally vigorous with charcoal-green stems when mature; flowers are dusky purple, very large, held in lupine-like flower spikes.
USDA Hardiness Zone
3
Special characteristics
flower color, medicinal/pharmaceutical