Indigofera himalayensis 'Silk Road'
ABOUT
Indigofera himalayensis 'Silk Road', also known as the Himalayan indigo, is a deciduous shrub widely admired for its attractive foliage and blooms. Its leaves are pinnate, meaning they are composed of multiple small leaflets arranged on either side of a central stem, which collectively form a feather-like appearance. These leaflets are typically a soft green color that can add a lush look to the plant's silhouette. The Himalayan indigo is particularly noted for its floral display. During its blooming period, it produces elongated clusters of flowers that drape gracefully from the branches. These flowers are often a striking shade of pink or even a pale purple, adding a splash of color that contrasts attractively against the green foliage. The individual blossoms are small and pea-like, typical of the species in the legume family, to which this plant belongs. In addition to its aesthetic features, the textural quality of the Himalayan indigo's foliage and the density of its floral clusters create a visually pleasing, soft appearance that can enhance garden designs. The contrast between the fine-textured leaves and the dense flower spikes can make this plant a focal point in a garden setting.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Fabaceae
Synonyms
Himalayan Indigo, Silk Road Indigo
Common names
Indigofera himalayensis 'Silk Road'.
ToxicityTo humans
Indigofera himalayensis, commonly known as Indigo, has not been widely reported to be toxic to humans. However, plants in the Indigofera genus may contain compounds that can be irritating or potentially harmful if ingested in large quantities. There is limited information on the specific 'Silk Road' variety's toxicity to humans. As a general precaution, it is advisable to avoid ingesting any part of this plant and to keep it out of reach of children who might accidentally consume it. If any part of the plant is ingested and symptoms appear, medical attention should be sought. Symptoms of plant poisoning can vary but may include gastrointestinal distress such as nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea. In some cases, allergic reactions may occur.
To pets
Indigofera himalayensis, known as Indigo, has not been widely reported to be toxic to pets, but as with humans, the genus Indigofera could potentially contain compounds that are harmful if ingested. Since pets, particularly cats and dogs, can have different sensitivities to plants compared to humans, it is generally recommended to prevent pets from ingesting plants that are not known to be safe. If your pet does consume any part of an Indigo plant and shows signs of illness such as vomiting, diarrhea, or changes in behavior, it is important to contact a veterinarian promptly. The specific symptoms and severity of toxicity may vary depending on the quantity ingested and the sensitivity of the individual animal.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Pink
Height
3-4 feet (0.91-1.22 meters)
Spread
2-3 feet (0.61-0.91 meters)
Plant type
Shrub
Hardiness zones
6
Native area
Asia
Benefits
General Benefits- Ornamental Appeal: The Indigofera himalayensis 'Silk Road' adds visual interest to gardens with its attractive foliage and cascades of pink-to-lilac flowers.
- Drought Tolerance: Once established, it can tolerate periods of low water, making it suitable for xeriscaping or drought-prone areas.
- Pollinator Attraction: The flowers attract bees, butterflies, and other pollinating insects, supporting biodiversity in the garden.
- Low Maintenance: Requires minimal care beyond initial establishment, making it a good choice for gardeners with limited time.
- Seasonal Interest: It provides a long flowering season from late spring to early autumn, offering continuous color and interest.
- Erosion Control: Its root system helps stabilize soils on slopes, preventing erosion and aiding in landscape restoration.
Medical Properties- This plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other UsesOther uses:
- Leaf imprints: The leaves of Indigofera can be used in art projects for creating natural prints and patterns on paper or fabric.
- Fabric dye: Despite not being as potent as its relative True Indigo, Indigofera himalayensis can be used to produce a light dye for textiles.
- Ink production: The plant's extracts can potentially be developed into a natural ink for writing or drawing.
- Photography: The plant's dye can be used in alternative photography processes like cyanotype to produce prussian blue prints.
- Erosion control: This plant can be grown on slopes or areas prone to erosion to help stabilize the soil with its root system.
- Livestock fodder: The foliage can provide feed for certain types of livestock, particularly in regions where other forage might not be readily available.
- Garden aesthetics: With its attractive foliage and flowers, Indigofera himalayensis can be used purely for ornamental purposes in landscape designs.
- Craft material: Dried stems and pods can be incorporated into decorative craft works, such as wreaths or dried arrangements.
- Nectar source: The flowers are a source of nectar and can attract bees, butterflies, and other pollinators to the garden.
- Companion planting: Indigofera himalayensis may help enrich soil with nitrogen, benefiting neighboring plants in a garden or agricultural setting.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Himalayan indigo is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Himalayan indigo is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Mystery and Intuition: The deep blue or violet hues of the Indigo plant often symbolize mystery and intuition, representing the deep insights and wisdom that come from looking within.
- Creativity: Used historically in dyeing and creating vibrant textiles, Indigo represents creativity and innovation, making it a symbol for artistic expression and ingenuity.
- Wealth: Due to its historical value as a rare and sought-after dye, Indigo often symbolizes wealth and luxury, as it was once accessible only to the affluent.
- Inner Peace: The calming shade of Indigo is associated with tranquility and inner peace, used in various cultures to facilitate meditation and spiritual contemplation.
WaterThe Himalayan Indigo should be watered deeply but infrequently, allowing the soil to become dry to the touch between waterings. During active growth in the spring and summer, water approximately once a week, providing about 1.5-2 gallons for a medium-sized shrub. In the fall and winter, reduce watering to every two or three weeks, depending on the plant's environment and local weather conditions.
LightHimalayan Indigo thrives best in full sunlight to partial shade. It should be placed in a location where it can receive at least 6 hours of direct sunlight each day, while being protected from the harsh afternoon sun in very hot climates.
TemperatureThe ideal temperature range for Himalayan Indigo is between 60°F and 85°F. It can tolerate minimum temperatures down to around 50°F but should be protected from frost and extreme cold. The plant can survive maximum temperatures up to about 95°F as long as it is well-watered.
PruningPrune Himalayan Indigo in late winter or early spring to shape the plant and remove any dead or damaged wood. Pruning stimulates new growth, encourages flowering, and maintains the desired size and form. Prune every year or every other year, depending on the growth rate and the plant's appearance.
CleaningAs needed
SoilThe best soil mix for Himalayan Indigo consists of a well-draining mixture with a substantial amount of organic matter to retain some moisture. An ideal mixture could be one part garden loam, one part peat or well-rotted compost, and one part sharp sand or perlite. The desired pH range for Himalayan Indigo is mildly acidic to neutral, between 6.0 and 7.0.
RepottingHimalayan Indigo should be repotted every 2 to 3 years, or when it outgrows its current container. Choose a pot slightly larger than the previous one to allow for growth, and provide fresh soil mix to replenish nutrients.
Humidity & MistingHimalayan Indigo prefers moderate humidity levels, typical of its native mountainous environment. However, it is relatively adaptable and can tolerate lower humidity conditions common in home settings.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Ensure bright light, well-draining soil, and moderate watering.
Outdoor
Plant in sun to part shade; water regularly; protect from harsh winds.
Hardiness zone
6-9 USDA
Life cycleIndigofera himalayensis 'Silk Road', commonly known as Himalayan indigo, begins its life cycle when its seeds germinate in the spring, provided they have been exposed to adequate moisture and temperatures. The seedlings develop a root system and foliage during their first growing season, forming small shrubs. As a perennial, the shrub enters a period of dormancy in the winter, during which above-ground plant parts may die back depending on the climate. In the following spring, the plant resumes growth from its rootstock, producing new stems, leaves, and eventually flowering in late spring to summer, displaying racemes of pink to purple flowers that attract pollinators. After pollination, seed pods form and mature by late summer to early autumn, dispersing seeds to enable the next generation of plants. The cycle repeats with dormancy periods interspersed with active growth, flowering, and seed production in the plant's lifespan, which can be several years with proper care and favorable conditions.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring to Summer
Propogation: Indigofera himalayensis 'Silk Road', commonly known as Himalayan indigo, is best propagated through seed sowing. To promote germination, the seeds need to be scarified, which is a process of nicking or slightly damaging the hard seed coat to allow water to penetrate more easily. Once scarified, seeds should be sown in a well-draining seed starting mix, ideally in the spring, as warmer temperatures support germination. The seeds should be covered lightly with soil and kept moist but not waterlogged, in a bright, indirect light setting. Germination can take several weeks, so patience is necessary. After seedlings have developed a few sets of true leaves and are robust enough to handle, they can be transplanted into individual pots or directly into the garden if the risk of frost has passed.
