White Wild Indigo is a majestic and long-lived perennial that brings a sense of structure and timeless beauty to the native prairie garden. This shrub-like herb grows 2 to 4 feet tall, featuring clean, blue-green trifoliate leaves and striking, upright spikes of pure white, pea-like flowers in early summer. The blooms are followed by ornamental charcoal-black seed pods that persist into winter, providing visual interest and forage for birds. Native to prairies and open woodlands, it is incredibly hardy and drought-tolerant once its deep taproot is established. It performs best in full sun and well-drained soil but is adaptable to various conditions. As a legume, it fixes nitrogen, benefiting the surrounding soil. It is a high-value plant for bumblebees and a host for several butterfly species, including the Wild Indigo Duskywing. Due to its deep root system, it is best to plant it in a permanent location. Seeds germinate best after scarification and cold stratification.

Quick facts

• Height: 2–4 ft
• Sun: Full to Partial
• Soil moisture: Medium-Wet to Dry
• Bloom time: Jun–Jul (White)
• Life cycle: Perennial
• Notes: Legume
• Native range: Native to 24 states, including Iowa, Minnesota, Wisconsin, Illinois, Missouri, Nebraska

See the full growing guide and county range map for White Wild Indigo