Indigofera incarnata (Willd.) Nakai

Nomenclature

Indigofera incarnata (Willd.) Nakai (also referred to as Indigofera decora) is a species of shrub in the Fabaceae family, genus Indigofera. It is commonly known as summer wisteria.

Native and Introduced Range

This shrub is native to China and Japan, and has been introduced to Australia and Sri Lanka.

Human Uses

It is primarily used for decorative purposes, and has also been used to produce indigo-colored dye.

Growth Form and Size

Indigofera decora is a deciduous, spreading shrub that typically reaches 1 to 2.5 feet in height and 3 to 4 feet in width.

Leaf Characteristics

It bears compound, pinnate leaves that can grow up to 8 inches long, with 7 to 13 elliptic, dark green leaflets.

Flowering Period and Inflorescence

In summer, it produces axillary racemes of light pink or purple, pea-shaped flowers.

Flower Details

Each raceme holds 20 to 40 flowers, and its calyxes have broadly triangular lobes.

Soil Preferences

This species grows best in well-drained, neutral to slightly alkaline soils.

Climate Tolerance

It has moderate tolerance to heat and drought, but benefits from afternoon shade in hot, humid climates.

Cold Hardiness

It is cold hardy in USDA zones 7 to 11 in the United States.