Indigofera decora (summer wisteria) — shrub

Overview

Indigofera decora is a shrub in the genus Indigofera, part of the Q44448 family. It typically grows around 1.0 m tall. Indigofera decora grows best in full sun, and tolerates sandy and loamy soils. Its UK hardiness is rated H7. Suggested uses include decorative. It is native to China and Japan.

About

Indigofera decora is a shrub valued for its summer flowering display and decorative use. It reaches about 1.0 m and suits sunny, open sites where a low-to-medium shrub is required. Native to China and Japan, it flowers in the UK from June to September. It prefers full sun and moist but well-drained sandy or loamy soil and is fully hardy (H7).

Wikipedia contributors, CC BY-SA 4.0 — Indigofera decora

About the genus

Indigofera is a large genus of over 750 species of flowering plants belonging to the pea family Fabaceae. They are widely distributed throughout the tropical and subtropical regions of the world.

Wikipedia contributors, "Indigofera", CC BY-SA 4.0 — Indigofera

In the garden

Indigofera decora belongs to the genus Indigofera and originates from China and Japan; it is grown chiefly for its decorative summer flowering. With a typical height of around 1.0 m it provides a modest vertical element in the border without dominating taller shrubs. Place summer wisteria in a position receiving full sun and use a sandy or loamy soil that stays moist but drains freely; avoid sites that remain waterlogged. A mulch of well-rotted organic matter will help the soil retain moisture while preserving free drainage. The plant is rated H7 for UK hardiness (fully hardy) and corresponds to USDA zones 5–7, which is useful when comparing climates beyond Britain. Because of its compact stature, Indigofera decora suits the front to middle of a sunny mixed border or a low informal screen where summer flowering is wanted. Plant with slightly larger neighbours at the back of the border so it shows to best advantage. A light trim immediately after flowering will tidy growth and help keep stems within the 1.0 m profile.