White False Indigo works well as a summertime hedge or as a group of plants toward the rear of the garden. Spikes of rich white pea-like flowers rise above bluish-green foliage in early summer. The upper parts of the spikes and the bracts holding the flowers are charcoal gray, so the color combination is beautiful. The plant needs average moisture. It resents being disturbed so plant it where it can remain for years. Flowers can be used as unusual fresh cut flowers. (Sunlight Gardens)

Reply to this comment

An occasional to common wildflower in Illinois found in prairies, streamsides, fields, pastures, and along roadsides. Deep rooted, able to survive even after native prairie destroyed.
Used by native Americans and early settlers (tea for internal cleansing, externally as a skin wound dressing).
black seed pods used as rattler toys.
Can be poisonous if ingested in large quantities by cattle.
Flowers are showy and white w/ structure of other flowers typical in the pea family. Flowering stems emerge above the leaves. Alternate leaves are divided into 3 leaflets. Leaves turn black when dead.

Reply to this comment