Photo: Eric Hunt, CC BY-SA 4.0 · source
Pruning guide · Perennial
Blue false indigo: when and how to prune
Baptisia australis
Blue false indigo is best pruned in March.
| Pruning months | March |
|---|---|
| Flowering | May–June |
| Good for bees, butterflies and birds | Yes, for bees |
| Native to Belgium | No, planted |
| Poisonous to people and pets | Yes, take care with children and pets |
Blue false indigo: when to prune it?
In March, before the new shoots appear. Leave the black stems and pods standing all winter.
What else to prune in those months? March
Blue false indigo: how to prune it?
- Cut the old stems off just above the ground.
- If the clump falls open after flowering, you can shorten it by a third in June; you will lose the pods, though.
- No other pruning is needed.
How much to cut, and how often?
- One pruning period a year: March.
What does it mean for wildlife?
- Blue false indigo flowers in May–June, when it attracts bees.
- If you only cut back in March, the old stems stand through the winter: insects overwinter in them and birds eat the seeds.
Caution: Wear gloves and clear up the clippings: all parts of the plant are toxic. Blue false indigo is poisonous: wear gloves and keep clippings away from children, pets and livestock.
Nearby: related pruning guides
Plant profile: Blue false indigo · Pruning calendar and basic rules
This guide is compiled from the Bladwijzer plant profile and pruning calendar.