1 named cultivar

‘Survivor’Survivor Perfoliate Wild Indigo

perennial

Perfoliate Wild Indigo

The Story

Plant Bio

Baptisia perfoliata, known as Perfoliate Wild Indigo, is a unique perennial with distinctive blue-green, round, perfoliate leaves clasping the stems. It produces bright yellow, pea-like flowers in late spring.

This species is distinguished by its large, perfoliate leaves where the stem appears to pass through the leaf blade, and it is particularly valued for its drought tolerance and long-lasting floral display.

Uses & Benefits:

Provides striking yellow flowers and interesting foliage, enhances native gardens.

Nitrogen-fixing plant improves soil fertility naturally.

Supports pollinators and native wildlife, promoting biodiversity.

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Perennial

Height

36 inches

Width

24 inches

Light

Full Sun

Zones

6, 7, 8, 9

Water

Low

Humidity

Average

Lifespan

Perennial

Native To

Southeastern United States

Toxicity

Toxic if ingested

Planting

How to Grow

Tuck seeds into prepared soil in early spring
Water lightly after planting to settle soil
Mist cuttings if propagating via cuttings, keep moist for 6 weeks
Transplant seedlings after they develop true leaves
Mulch around base to retain moisture
Divide mature clumps every 3-4 years in early spring

Pro Tip

Ensure well-drained soil and full sun for best flowering results

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Water regularly during dry spells 🌱
Prune after flowering to maintain shape
Apply balanced fertilizer in early spring
Mulch to conserve moisture

Don't

Avoid overwatering to prevent root rot ❌
Do not disturb roots during peak flowering
Skip fertilizing in late fall
Refrain from heavy pruning in late summer

Seasonal Care Calendar

Task	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Divide
Fertilize
Plant
Propagate
Spring Cleanup

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Wildflower meadow with yellow bloomsNative plant border with textured foliage

Companion Plants

Echinacea purpurea Rudbeckia hirta Asclepias tuberosa Amorpha fruticosa

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Perfoliate Wild Indigo questions

What zones can Perfoliate Wild Indigo grow in?

Perfoliate Wild Indigo is hardy in USDA Zones 6–9. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is Perfoliate Wild Indigo deer resistant?

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

When does Perfoliate Wild Indigo bloom?

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

Does Perfoliate Wild Indigo need full sun?

Perfoliate Wild Indigo does best in full sun (6+ hours).

Is Perfoliate Wild Indigo drought tolerant?

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