Wild Indigo (Baptisia lactea)

Family: Fabaceae or Leguminosae | Edibility: Edible (1/5)

Baptisia lactea is a PERENNIAL growing to 2 m (6ft 7in). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 5. It is in flower in May. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs). It can fix Nitrogen. Suitable for: light (sandy) and medium (loamy) soils and prefers well-drained soil. Suitable pH: mildly acid and neutral soils. It cannot grow in the shade. It prefers moist soil.

Edible Parts & Harvest Seasons

Edible Parts: Leaves

Harvest Seasons: Early Summer, Fall, Late Summer, Spring

Flavor & Culinary Uses

None known. — Harvested fresh in season according to PFAF botanical monograph.

Habitat & North American Range

Sandy pine woods, prairies and river banks. (Zone 4, Zone 5, Zone 6, Zone 7, Zone 8)