Amorpha nana

RHS Plant Profile
dwarf false indigo

Synonyms

Amorpha microphylla

Shrubs

A low-growing deciduous shrub with bright green, finely textured foliage. Leaves, 7.5cm (3 in) long, are made up of 6 to 15 pairs of oval leaflets. Produces spikes of honey-scented, purple flowers flecked with orange in early summer. Grows to approximately 60 x 60cm.

Position

Full shade, Partial shade

Soil Types

Chalk, Loam, Sand

Max Height

0.1-0.5 metres

Max Spread

0.5-1 metres

Size

Time to Maturity
5–10 years
Max Spread
0.5-1 metres
Max Height
0.1-0.5 metres

Growing Conditions

Chalk Loam Sand
Moisture
Moist but well–drained or Well–drained
pH
Acid or Alkaline or Neutral

Position

Full shade Partial shade
Aspect
East–facing or South–facing or West–facing or North–facing
Exposure
Exposed or Sheltered
Hardiness
H4
Drought Resistance
Yes

Colour & Scent

Fragrance Flower
Season Stem Flower Foliage Fruit
Spring
Summer
Autumn
Winter

Botanical Details

Family
Fabaceae
Native to GB/Ireland
No
Foliage
Deciduous
Habit
Bushy
Genus
Amorpha are deciduous shrubs with pinnate leaves and racemes of tiny, single-petalled, deep purple or blue flowers in summer
Name Status
Correct
Plant Range
Central USA

How to Grow

Cultivation

Grow in a sunny position in well drained loamy soil

Propagation

Propagate by pre-soaked seed in autumn or spring in containers in a cold frame

Suggested planting locations and garden types

  • Cottage and informal garden
  • Prairie planting
  • Rock garden
  • Flower borders and beds

Pruning

Pruning group 6

Pests

Generally pest-free

Diseases

May be susceptible to rust diseases and powdery mildews