shrub

Blue Broom Psoralea

Psoralea pinnata

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Shrub

Height

120 inches

Width

60 inches

Light

Full Sun, Partial Sun

Zones

9

Water

Low to moderate

Humidity

Average

Lifespan

Perennial

Native To

South Africa

Toxicity

Contains compounds that may cause skin irritation with sun exposure

The Story

Plant Bio

Psoralea pinnata is a large shrub or small tree known for its attractive purple flowers and fragrant foliage. Notable for its drought tolerance and ability to fix nitrogen in the soil, enhancing its surrounding environment.

Bloom Period:

J
F
M
A
M
J
J
A
S
O
N
D
EarlyLate

Uses & Benefits:

Ornamental UsesAdds vibrant purple blooms and attractive foliage to sunny gardens.
Practical UsesDrought-tolerant, requiring minimal watering once established.
Ecological BenefitsSupports native pollinators and beneficial insects.

Planting

How to Grow

  1. Tuck seeds into well-draining soil in early spring for best germination.
  2. Water regularly to keep soil moist but not waterlogged during establishment.
  3. Provide full sun to promote healthy growth and flowering.
  4. Apply a balanced fertilizer every 6 weeks during the growing season.
  5. Prune lightly after flowering to shape the plant and encourage new growth.
  6. Mulch around the base to retain moisture and suppress weeds.

Pro Tip

Soak seeds overnight before planting to enhance germination success.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

  • Water consistently, especially during dry spells 🌱
  • Prune after flowering to maintain shape
  • Use a balanced fertilizer every 6 weeks

Don't

  • Avoid overwatering to prevent root rot ❌
  • Do not disturb roots during flowering
  • Skip fertilizing in late fall

Seasonal Care Calendar

TaskJanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Mulch
Plant
Prune
Spring Cleanup

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Wildflower meadow with native grassesDrought-tolerant border with textured foliage

Companion Plants

Echinacea Lavender Gaillardia Yarrow Russian sage

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Blue Broom Psoralea questions

What zones can Blue Broom Psoralea grow in?

Blue Broom Psoralea is hardy in USDA Zones 9–10. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is Blue Broom Psoralea deer resistant?

Yes — Blue Broom Psoralea is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.

When does Blue Broom Psoralea bloom?

Blue Broom Psoralea typically blooms in early summer through late summer. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.

Does Blue Broom Psoralea need full sun?

Blue Broom Psoralea does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.

Is Blue Broom Psoralea drought tolerant?

Yes — once established (usually after the first full season), Blue Broom Psoralea handles dry spells with minimal watering. Water deeply its first year to build the root system that makes that possible.

Keep exploring

Grow Blue Broom Psoralea with confidence

See it in a design of your actual yard, get zone-matched care reminders, and track it season by season in your garden journal.