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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.

Pickup available at Aiken Nursery

Usually ready in 2-4 days

PLANT DETAILS

Hardiness Zones: 6 - 9

Soil: Deep and Rich

Sun: Full Sun

Seasonal Behavior: Deciduous

Growth Rate:

Height at Maturity: 3 - 4 Feet

Spread at Maturity: 3 - 4 Feet

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

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.

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