Baptisia ‘Lunar Eclipse’ (False Indigo)

Noted for its unique flowers, Baptisia ‘Lunar Eclipse’ is an upright perennial bearing a profusion of oversized flowers held well above the foliage. Emerging pale lemon over cream, the blossoms gradually turn cream, then pale lilac and ultimately purple-blue, producing a unique multicolor effect. Borne on gracefully arching branches, they last for up to 2-3 weeks and attract butterflies, bees, and hummingbirds. When the flowers fade away, the lovely blue-green foliage, which forms a beautiful vase-shaped mound, remains neat all season and creates a lovely backdrop for the other perennials in the garden. Bred at the Chicago Botanic Garden, this hybrid Baptisia is vigorous, tough, and long-lived.

• Blooming in late spring to early summer, it is an extremely valuable addition to the garden and its seedpods help create lovely winter decorations.
• Spreads by underground rhizomes and typically grows up to 3-4 ft. tall and wide (90-120 cm).
• Thrives in full sun in average, dry to medium, well-drained soils. Although it will grow in some shade, this plant tends to become leggy and may require staking. Tolerates poor soils and drought. Do not disturb once established as it develops a deep taproot that is easily damaged if you try to transplant it.
• Attracts scores of butterflies and hummingbirds. Baptisia is rarely bothered by deer as they consider it unpalatable and is rabbit resistant.
• Looks stunning in beds and borders, cottage gardens, prairies or meadows, and native plant gardens. Great as a specimen plant or in small groups.
• Trimming foliage after bloom helps maintain a rounded plant appearance, but you will miss out on the attractive seed pods which are great to use in dried flower arrangements.