Baptisia australis ‘Alba’, commonly known as White Wild Indigo, is a cultivar of a native perennial found throughout much of the eastern and central United States. This long-lived, clump-forming plant typically grows 3 to 4 feet tall and wide and is valued for its upright habit and elegant pure white, pea-like flowers. Blooming in late spring to early summer, ‘Alba’ produces tall flower spikes that rise above blue-green foliage, followed by ornamental seed pods that add texture later in the season. It thrives in full sun to part shade and prefers well-drained soils, becoming drought tolerant once established.

Why choose White Wild Indigo

• Native lineage: Cultivar of the native species Baptisia australis

• White spring blooms: Tall spikes of clean white flowers

• Long-lived perennial: Forms a durable, low-maintenance clump

Cultivating tips

• Sun exposure: Full sun to part shade

• Soil needs: Prefers well-drained soils; tolerates dry conditions once established

• Maintenance: Low—avoid transplanting once established due to deep roots

Designs for your garden

• Native plantings: Ideal for meadows and prairie-style gardens

• Pollinator gardens: Provides spring nectar and visual contrast

• Sunny borders: Adds structure among grasses and flowering perennials

Ecological benefits

• Pollinator-friendly: Flowers attract bees and other beneficial insects

• Native value: Supports regional ecosystems and native insects

• Wildlife support: Seed pods provide seasonal structure and habitat