Kingdom:
Phylum:
Angiosperms
Order:
Fabales
Family:
Genus:
Species:
californica
ID:
174507

Status:
valid

Authors:
Nutt. ex Torr. & A.Gray

Source:
ildis

Year:
1838

Citation Micro:
Fl. N. Amer. (Torr. & A. Gray) 1(2): 306. 1838 [Oct 1838]

WFO Identifier:
wfo-0000173836

Common Names

  • California False Indigo
  • California Indigo Bush
  • Desert False Indigo

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Synonyms

  • Amorpha hispidula C.K.Schneid. [unknown]

Description

Amorpha californica (also called California False Indigo, among many other common names) is a shrub in the family Fabaceae. It has a stout, upright stem and grows up to 1.5 m tall. It is native to western North America, and is found in dry habitats such as chaparral, woodlands, and grasslands.

Uses & Benefits

Amorpha californica is used as an ornamental plant in gardens and parks. It is also used as a cover crop and for erosion control. The plant is also used for medicinal purposes and as a source of nectar for bees.

Flower, Seeds and Seedlings

Amorpha californica has small, purple flowers that bloom in summer. The seed pods are long and thin, containing several small, black seeds. The seedlings have two seed leaves and a taproot.

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Cultivation and Propagation

Amorpha californica is a deciduous shrub that can be propagated by seed or cuttings. It prefers moist, well-drained soils and full sun to partial shade. It is drought tolerant and can tolerate some flooding. It can be propagated from seed or cuttings, and can be grown in containers.

Where to Find Amorpha californica

Amorpha californica is native to the western United States. It is found in dry, open areas such as chaparral and grasslands.

Amorpha californica FAQ

What is the scientific name of Amorpha californica?

Amorpha californica

What is the common name of Amorpha californica?

California False Indigo

What type of plant is Amorpha californica?

Shrub

Species in the Fabaceae family

References

The Plant List v1.1 record ild-19969: Based on the initial data import
Asa Gray (1810-1888): Based on occurrence of standard abbreviation 'A.Gray' in the authors string.
John Torrey (1796-1873): Based on occurrence of standard abbreviation 'Torr.' in the authors string.
Thomas Nuttall (1786-1859): Based on occurrence of standard abbreviation 'Nutt.' in the authors string.