Decadence® Lemon Meringue False Indigo (Baptisia 'Lemon Meringue')

Decadence® Lemon Meringue False Indigo (Baptisia 'Lemon Meringue') is an upright hybrid perennial with robust, clover-like blue-green foliage. Racemes of cool lemon-yellow flowers on contrasting gray stems bloom above the foliage in late spring and early summer.

The flowers attract pollinators and butterflies. Large seedpods follow, turning black when ripe and adding ornamental interest.

Growing details

• Plant type: Hybrid perennial
• Origin: Hybrid derived from North American native Baptisia
• Mature size: 2–3 feet tall and wide
• Spacing: Approximately 2.5 feet apart
• Hardiness: USDA zones 4–9
• Light: Full sun to part sun
• Soil: Well-drained; prefers acidic soil but tolerates neutral or alkaline soil
• Flowers: Lemon-yellow racemes on gray stems
• Bloom season: Late spring and early summer
• Foliage: Clover-like blue-green leaves
• Seedpods: Large pods that blacken when ripe

Care and garden use

This low-maintenance perennial tolerates poor or rocky soil and drought, but good drainage is essential. It 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 coneflower, butterfly bush, or gaillardia where growing conditions suit each plant.

Image credit: Photoset by Proven Winners, Decadence® 'Lemon Meringue'. Plants naturally vary in appearance and may differ from the images shown.