Apalachicola wild indigo

Baptisia megacarpa

$17.00

| Hardiness Zones 6-9

Baptisia megacarpa—known as Apalachicola Wild Indigo or Bigpod Wild Indigo—is a rare and remarkable species native to the floodplains and forested slopes of the Florida Panhandle, southeastern Alabama, and southwestern Georgia. Its natural habitat includes sandy ridges and stream terraces in the Chattahoochee River drainage, making it specially adapted to the unique conditions of this region. This perennial is often found in moist, well-drained soils, where it produces its distinctive large, creamy flower spikes, followed by showy seed pods that remain attractive into autumn​.

Historically, B. megacarpa stands out as a member of the Baptisia genus, which includes plants long valued for their beauty and adaptability. While it shares a pollination relationship with bees, typical of many Baptisia species, its seeds are vulnerable to predation by weevils, adding a layer of ecological complexity to its reproduction. The plant’s chemical defenses, including quinolizidine alkaloids, discourage grazing and insect damage, giving it a botanical edge in its native ecosystems​.

With only a few known populations remaining and the species classified as critically imperiled in Georgia, Baptisia megacarpa faces threats from logging, invasive species, and habitat changes due to river damming. Conservation efforts emphasize protecting its native floodplain environment, making it not only a rare addition to the garden but also a symbol of ongoing regional biodiversity conservation.
Plant Specs
  • Zones: 6 - 9
  • Sun: Full Sun
  • Soil: Deep and Rich
  • Height at Maturity: 3 - 4 Feet
  • Spread at Maturity: 3 - 4 Feet
  • Growth Rate:

Deciduous
Flower/Foliage

Baptisia megacarpa produces beautiful, pea-like flowers that bloom in late spring to early summer. The flowers are arranged in tall, upright racemes and are typically pale yellow to cream in color, creating a soft, elegant display above the foliage. The flowers are similar in shape to other members of the legume family, with each bloom measuring about 1 inch in diameter.

After the blooming period, the plant develops large, inflated seed pods that are much bigger than those of other Baptisia species, which is where the species gets its name, megacarpa ("mega" meaning large and "carpa" referring to the fruit). These seed pods start out green and mature to a deep brown or black color, adding ornamental interest well into the fall.

The combination of attractive flowers and striking seed pods makes Baptisia megacarpa a standout in any garden, offering multi-season interest and unique textural elements.

Creamy yellow, spring
Care Info

Read full care instruction manual here.

Sunlight: Baptisia megacarpa grows best in full sun but can tolerate partial shade. Full sun promotes vigorous growth and abundant flowering, while partial shade may result in fewer blooms.

Soil: This plant prefers well-drained, loamy soil but can adapt to various soil types, including sandy and clay soils. It does not tolerate poorly drained or waterlogged conditions.

Watering: Once established, Baptisia megacarpa is drought-tolerant and needs little additional watering. Water regularly during the first growing season to help establish a deep, strong root system.

Fertilization: Baptisia megacarpa does not require much fertilization, as it is a nitrogen-fixing plant that enriches the soil naturally. Avoid over-fertilizing, which can lead to weak growth.

Pruning: After flowering, you can prune back the plant if desired, though it’s not necessary. Cutting the plant back in late fall or early winter helps keep your garden tidy. The seed pods that develop after blooming can also be left for ornamental interest.

Propagation: Propagation can be done by seed, although seeds may take a few years to germinate and flower. Division is not recommended due to its deep taproot, which makes mature plants difficult to transplant.

Pests and Diseases: Baptisia megacarpa is typically free of pests and diseases, making it a low-maintenance addition to your garden.

Winter Care: Hardy in USDA zones 5-9, Baptisia megacarpa requires no special winter protection. It dies back to the ground after frost, and the dead stems should be removed in late fall or early winter.

Pickup available at Aiken Nursery

Usually ready in 2-4 days

Grown in Aiken, South Carolina

At Woodlanders, we are committed to quality.

All our plant material is carefully propagated, grown, and nurtured at our humble nursery in Aiken, South Carolina.

Learn more about Woodlanders here.

Here’s a closer look at how we produce our plants:
from rooting to shipping, our top priority is ensuring you receive healthy, thriving plants for your garden’s success.

The majority of our plants are carefully cultivated from rooted cuttings, while we also utilize propagation methods such as seed, air layering, and grafting, thoughtfully chosen to suit each plant’s unique needs.

Our plants are cultivated using sustainable practices, including organic soil blends and eco-friendly pest management, ensuring they thrive while minimizing environmental impact.

We are proud to contribute to local biodiversity through ongoing donations to the Aiken Arboretum and support for local wildlife conservation efforts, helping to preserve and enhance our community’s natural ecosystems.

Plant Success Tip #1

Unpack Promptly

Carefully unpack your plant as soon as it arrives. Check the roots and soil to ensure they are still moist. If the roots feel dry, lightly mist or water them before proceeding with planting or temporary storage.

Plant Success Tip #2

Acclimate Your Plant

Allow your plant to adjust to its new environment by placing it in a sheltered spot for a day or two before planting, especially if it has traveled a long distance. Avoid exposing it to extreme temperatures right away.

Plant Success Tip #3

Follow Planting and Care Instructions

Plant your new arrival as soon as possible, following the specific care guidelines provided. If planting outdoors isn’t immediately possible, temporarily pot it in well-draining soil to maintain health until conditions are suitable.

Read Care Instructions

Frequently Asked Questions

What to expect upon delivery

All our plants are sold in 1-gallon sizes, though the height of each plant can vary depending on its growth rate and seasonality, typically ranging from 1/2 to 2.5 feet.

Each plant is carefully packaged with its roots enclosed in a secure plastic bag containing moist soil, forming a compact root ball. To ensure safe transport, the box is padded with recycled newspaper, providing both stability and eco-friendly protection from weather during shipping.
What is your return policy?

Review our full return policy information on our SHIPPING AND RETURNS POLICY page.
What payment methods can I use?

We offer 35 different payment methods including major providers like Mastercard, Visa, PayPal, American Express and Diners as well as many different local payment methods including Klarna, iDEAL, AliPay, Sofort, giropay, and many more.
Can I make changes to my order after it’s been placed?

At Woodlanders, we strive to fulfill orders as quickly as possible. Therefore, we can only accommodate changes to your order within the first 24 hours after it has been placed. These changes include adding or removing products and modifying the delivery address. If you need to make any changes or if there has been a mistake with your order information, please reach out to us promptly via our CONTACT page with your order number for the quickest resolution.

Your satisfaction is our priority, and we appreciate your understanding and cooperation.