Indigo Bush
Psorothamnus arborescens
Indigo Bush is a hardy, woody shrub native to the deserts of the American Southwest. It’s known for its deep purple flowers and silvery foliage, making it one of the more striking plants in a spring desert landscape.
Appearance:
This shrub typically grows 2 to 5 feet tall. Its leaves are small, gray-green, and often covered in fine hairs. In spring, it produces clusters of rich indigo to violet flowers that stand out sharply against the dusty desert background.
The plant may also have a pleasant scent, especially when in bloom.
Habitat:
Common on rocky slopes, desert washes, and creosote bush scrub. It prefers dry, well-drained soils and full sun.
Bloom Time:
Usually blooms from March to May, depending on local rainfall and conditions.
Pollinators:
Attracts bees, butterflies, and other native insects. As a legume, it also helps improve soil by fixing nitrogen.
Note:
Indigo Bush is both tough and beautiful. It thrives in dry conditions and rewards the desert with bold color and pollinator support each spring.
Indigo bush grows on dry hills and in valleys, from 2000 to 4000 feet elevation.
A finely branched, small shrub, growing 1 to 4 feet tall.
Flowers; Intense, violet-blue flowers.