Weeping Indigo Indigofera pendula
ABOUT
Indigofera pendula, commonly known as the weeping indigo, is a perennial shrub that displays a graceful, cascading habit. Its long, flexible branches bow gently under the weight of its foliage and flowers. The leaves are compound, with multiple small, oval to oblong leaflets on a central stalk, giving a feather-like appearance. These leaflets have smooth edges and are a rich green hue, contributing to the lush look of the plant. During the blooming season, the weeping indigo is adorned with dense clusters of pea-like flowers. These blossoms are typically a vibrant pink, red, or purple color, which adds a vivid splash of color to the soft green of the foliage. The colorful display of the flowers hangs elegantly down in elongated racemes, enhancing the weeping form of this attractive shrub. The overall aesthetic is one of relaxed beauty, with the weeping branches and bright flowers creating a visual spectacle that can soften the landscape. The plant's appearance makes it a favorite among gardeners who seek to add a touch of elegance and a burst of color to their outdoor spaces.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Fabaceae
Synonyms
Weeping Indigo, Pendulous Indigo
Common names
Indigofera pendula.
ToxicityTo humans
The plant Indigofera pendula, commonly known as the weeping indigo, does include compounds that can be toxic to humans if ingested. It contains indospicine, a non-protein amino acid that can cause liver damage and other toxic effects. Symptoms of poisoning may include vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, and, in severe cases, liver failure. Therefore, care should be taken to prevent ingestion of any part of the weeping indigo plant. Long-term or significant consumption may lead to more severe health consequences, including potential fatality.
To pets
Weeping indigo is also toxic to pets, particularly to dogs and livestock. The presence of indospicine in the plant can lead to liver toxicity and secondary photosensitization in animals. Symptoms of poisoning in pets can include lack of appetite, lethargy, jaundice, vomiting, and in severe cases, liver failure which could potentially be fatal. It is imperative that pet owners prevent their pets from consuming any part of the weeping indigo plant to avoid these toxic effects.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Pink
Height
4-6 feet (1.2-1.8 meters)
Spread
4-6 feet (1.2-1.8 meters)
Plant type
Shrub
Hardiness zones
8
Native area
Asia
Benefits
General Benefits- Drought resistance: Indigofera pendula can survive in arid conditions, making it suitable for xeriscaping or drought-prone gardens.
- Erosion control: Due to its root system, it is good at stabilizing soil and preventing erosion on slopes and banks.
- Nitrogen fixing: Like other legumes, it contributes to improving soil fertility by fixing atmospheric nitrogen.
- Ornamental value: The plant's drooping clusters of pink or red flowers can add aesthetic value to landscapes and gardens.
- Forage for livestock: It is sometimes used as forage for animals, supplying nutritious feed.
- Wildlife attractant: Its flowers are known to attract pollinators such as bees, and the plant may also provide habitat for certain wildlife.
Medical Properties- Analgesic: Traditionally used to alleviate pain.
- Anti-inflammatory: Employed to reduce inflammation in various conditions.
- Antipyretic: Used to reduce fever.
- Antiseptic: Applied topically to prevent infection.
- Wound healing: Utilized to promote the healing of cuts and bruises.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- As a natural dye: The leaves of the Indigo plant can be processed to produce indigo dye, which has been historically used to color fabrics a deep blue.
- Insect-repellent properties: The plant may deter certain insects and can be used in gardens or around the home to keep pests away.
- Livestock feed: Parts of the Indigo plant can be used as forage for animals, particularly in areas where other fodder is scarce.
- Soil enrichment: The Indigo plant has nitrogen-fixing properties that can enhance soil fertility and assist in crop rotation practices.
- Erosion control: Due to its deep rooting system, the plant can help stabilize soil and prevent erosion.
- Crafting natural inks: Beyond textile dyes, the pigments from Indigo can be used to create natural inks for art and calligraphy.
- Tanning leather: The extracts from Indigo can be utilized in the leather tanning process to impart color and quality to the material.
- Botanical art: The distinctive leaves and pendulous form of the Indigo plant make it a subject for botanical illustration and garden aesthetics.
- Decorative purposes: Dried branches of the Indigo plant can be used in floral arrangements or as decorative pieces in eco-friendly crafts.
- Biodegradable fabric printing: The natural dyes from Indigo can be used for printing patterns on fabrics that are designed to be environmentally friendly and biodegradable.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Indigofera pendula is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Indigofera pendula is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Transformation: The Indigofera pendula plant is associated with the dye indigo, which is a deep blue color that can represent change and transformation, as raw materials change color through dyeing.
- Intuition: The dark hue of indigo dye is linked to the third eye chakra, symbolizing intuition and inner wisdom, reflecting the plant's ability to help us tap into deeper understanding.
- Creativity: As a source of rich color used for artistic expression, Indigofera pendula symbolizes creativity and inspiration, encouraging imaginative endeavors.
- Mysticism: Indigo is often connected to the mystical and the spiritual, symbolizing a deeper, esoteric knowledge that might be associated with the plant used to create the dye.
WaterWeeping Indigo (Indigofera pendula) generally prefers a moderate-watering approach, where the soil is allowed to dry out slightly between waterings. Typically, this plant should be watered deeply once a week, but the frequency should be adjusted depending on the climate and the season. In warmer weather, you may need to water more frequently, while in cooler or overcast conditions, you can reduce the frequency. When watering, aim to use approximately one gallon of water per plant to ensure the root zone is thoroughly saturated. Over-watering or allowing the plant to sit in water can lead to root rot, so ensure proper drainage.
LightWeeping Indigo thrives in full sun to partial shade, depending on the climate. In cooler regions, it benefits from full sun exposure, which helps promote flowering and growth. However, in hotter areas, some afternoon shade can help protect the plant from intense heat. Choose a location that receives at least 4 to 6 hours of direct sunlight daily for optimal growth and flowering.
TemperatureWeeping Indigo does well in a temperature range from approximately 50°F to 85°F. It can handle brief periods of colder temperatures down to around 30°F, but it should be protected from frosts and freezes. The ideal growing conditions for Weeping Indigo are in a warm climate with temperatures consistently between 60°F and 80°F.
PruningWeeping Indigo should be pruned to maintain shape, encourage bushier growth, and remove any dead or diseased wood. Pruning is best done in the early spring before new growth starts. Cut back the stems of the plant by about a third to stimulate new growth and flowering. Regular pruning also helps ensure that light and air can reach the interior parts of the plant, promoting overall plant health.
CleaningAs needed
SoilWeeping Indigo prefers well-draining soil that's rich in organic matter. The best soil mix for this plant would be a combination of loam, sand, and compost or peat to ensure good drainage and fertility. The soil pH should ideally be slightly acidic to neutral, ranging between 6.0 and 7.0.
RepottingWeeping Indigo should be repotted every 2 to 3 years to provide fresh soil and encourage growth. Younger plants may need more frequent repotting, whereas mature plants can be repotted less often if they are not root-bound.
Humidity & MistingWeeping Indigo thrives in moderate to high humidity levels. Aim for a humidity level around 40-50%, which mirrors its natural environment and supports healthy growth.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Keep Weeping Indigo in bright, indirect light indoors.
Outdoor
Plant Weeping Indigo in partial shade, protect from strong winds.
Hardiness zone
7-9 USDA
Life cycleIndigofera pendula, commonly known as Weeping Indigo, begins its life cycle as a seed, which germinates in moist, well-draining soil when temperatures are warm. Upon germination, the seedling stage is characterized by the emergence of the first true leaves after the initial sprouting of the cotyledons. As it enters the vegetative stage, the plant develops a branching stem system, compound leaves, and undergoes significant root growth to establish itself. This is followed by the flowering stage, where the plant produces cascading racemes of pink or violet flowers, attracting pollinators for reproduction. After pollination, the plant enters the fruiting stage, producing pods that contain seeds for the next generation. Finally, in some conditions, the plant may go into a dormancy period during unfavorable weather before resuming growth or reproducing again in the next season.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-Early Summer
Indigofera pendula, often simply known as Indigofera, is a plant that is best propagated by seed. The optimal time for seed propagation is in the spring after the last frost when the soil temperature has warmed. To propagate Indigofera pendula from seed, one should first soak the seeds in warm water for 12 to 24 hours to help break seed dormancy and promote germination. Plant the seeds in a well-draining seed starting mix, barely covering them with soil. Place the pots in a warm, bright location, ensuring that the soil remains moist but not waterlogged. Germination can take several weeks, so patience is required. Once the seedlings are large enough to handle, typically when they have developed a couple of sets of true leaves, they can be transplanted to their final location outdoors.
