Also known as False Indigo · 119 saves
Amorpha
Amorpha, the genus most gardeners know as false indigo. We track 4 varieties; the ones most used by real gardeners.
The 3 most-saved Amorpha varieties
Browse all 4 Amorpha varieties →
2 species of Amorpha
Each one is a parent of the varieties above.
Track your Amorpha in Sow
Save the Amorpha you grow and get care reminders timed to your zone.
How to grow Amorpha
Whats common across all Amorpha varieties in our catalog — drawn from the care records of the 4 most-grown of them.
The Amorpha year
- PruneFebruary and March100% of varieties
Cut back to a low framework in late winter to keep the plant dense.
- PlantMarch, April, September and October50% of varieties
Plant in spring or fall to establish roots in cooler weather.
Do
- Mulch to conserve moisture
- Plant in full sun and lean soil ☀️
- Site it once and leave it 🌱
- Cut back in late winter ✂️
- Use it on dry slopes and prairie planting 🌾
Avoid
- Feed it; it fixes its own nitrogen ❌
- Move an established plant ❌
- Plant in wet, heavy soil ❌
- Do not plant in deep shade, which reduces flowering
What goes wrong with Amorpha
| Problem | What you'll see | What to do |
|---|---|---|
| Aphids | Clusters of small insects on new growth, sticky honeydew. | A strong spray of water can dislodge them. Use insecticidal soap for heavier infestations. |
| Generally pest-free | No significant insect damage is typical | No treatment needed |
| Generally disease-free | No significant disease issues reported | Ensure good drainage |
| Leaf Spot | Small, dark spots on leaves, which may yellow and drop. | Generally not serious. Ensure good air circulation and remove fallen debris. Fungicides are rarely needed. |
| Rust | Orange or brown pustules on the undersides of leaves. | Improve air circulation. Remove and destroy infected leaves. Fungicides are an option for severe cases. |
Making more Amorpha
Seed
- Collect seed pods in fall when they turn dark brown
- Scarify seeds by nicking the seed coat or using sandpaper
- Sow seeds outdoors in fall or cold stratify for 60-90 days
- Germination occurs in spring as soils warm
Cuttings
- Take semi-hardwood cuttings in late summer
- Dip in rooting hormone
- Place in moist soil and keep humid for 4-6 weeks
Amorpha questions
How many types of Amorpha are there?
The Sow catalog tracks 4 distinct Amorpha varieties. The most popular — ranked by 119 real gardeners — are shown first above.
What zones does Amorpha grow in?
Across its varieties, Amorpha covers USDA Zones 4–9. Individual varieties differ — each plant page lists its exact range, and Sow filters the catalog to your zone automatically.
When does Amorpha bloom?
Most Amorpha varieties bloom in mid summer, late spring. Staggering early, mid, and late varieties extends the genus's season in one bed.
Which Amorpha should I choose?
Start from the most-saved varieties above — popularity across thousands of gardens is a strong signal of reliability — then filter by your zone and sun. In the Sow app you can preview any of them in a photo of your actual yard before you buy.