Decadence® Dark Chocolate False Indigo (Baptisia 'Dark Chocolate')

Decadence® Dark Chocolate False Indigo (Baptisia 'Dark Chocolate') is a compact, upright hybrid perennial with bright green foliage. Racemes of near-black purple flowers rise 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 acidic, well-drained soil. Drought tolerant once established.

Growing details

• Plant type: Hybrid perennial
• Origin: Hybrid derived from North American native Baptisia
• Mature height: 3–3.5 feet
• Mature spread: 2.5–3 feet
• Spacing: Approximately 3 feet apart
• Hardiness: USDA zones 4–9
• Light: Full sun to part sun; flowers best in full sun
• Soil: Acidic and well-drained
• Flowers: Near-black purple racemes
• Bloom season: Late spring into summer
• Foliage: Bright green
• Seedpods: Large pods that blacken when ripe
• Additional traits: Drought tolerance once established

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.

Use as an accent or in grouped plantings, borders, wildlife gardens, naturalized areas, foundation plantings, or suitably sized containers. Pair with purple coneflower, goldenrod, or butterfly weed.

Image credit: Prides Corner, Baptisia x Decadence® 'Dark Chocolate'. Plants naturally vary in appearance and may differ from the images shown.