American Goldfinch False Indigo (Baptisia 'American Goldfinch')

American Goldfinch False Indigo (Baptisia 'American Goldfinch') is a dense, upright perennial with blue-green foliage. Profuse golden-yellow flowers cover racemes up to a foot long above the foliage mound from late spring into summer.

Large seedpods follow the blooms, turning black when ripe and adding ornamental interest. It flowers best in full sun and dry to average-moisture, well-drained, acidic soil. Drought tolerant once established.

Safety note: The foliage is mildly toxic to mammals if ingested. Keep it away from pets and children who may chew plants.

Growing details

• Plant type: Perennial
• Mature height: 3–3.5 feet
• Mature spread: 4–5 feet
• Spacing: Approximately 4.5 feet apart
• Hardiness: USDA zones 4–8
• Light: Full sun to part sun; flowers best in full sun
• Soil: Dry to average-moisture, acidic and well-drained
• Flowers: Golden-yellow racemes up to a foot long
• Bloom season: Late spring into summer
• Foliage: Blue-green
• Seedpods: Large pods that blacken when ripe

Care and garden use

This low-maintenance perennial develops a shrub-like appearance as it establishes. Plants grown in shade may become taller and require staking. If trimming is needed, do so after flowering.

Baptisias serve as host plants for several butterfly species. Use as an accent or in grouped plantings, borders, wildlife gardens, naturalized areas, foundation plantings, or suitably sized containers. Allow room for its mature spread. Pair with purple coneflower, goldenrod, or butterfly weed.

Plants naturally vary in appearance and may differ from the images shown.