Kingdom:
Phylum:
Angiosperms
Order:
Fabales
Family:
Species:
alternans
ID:
190869

Status:
valid

Authors:
DC.

Source:
ildis

Year:
1825

Citation Micro:
Prodr.2: 229 (1825)

WFO Identifier:
wfo-0000190198



Common Names

  • Alternate-leaved Indigofera
  • Alternate-leaved Indigo
  • Alternans Indigofera


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Synonyms

  • Anil alternans Kuntze [unknown]

Description

Indigofera alternans (also called Alternant Indigo, among many other common names) is a perennial herbaceous plant that grows up to 1 m tall. It is native to the Middle East and Central Asia, and typically inhabits dry, rocky slopes and grasslands.

Uses & Benefits

Indigofera alternans is used as an ornamental plant, for its medicinal properties, and for its culinary uses. Its medicinal uses include treating fever, headaches, and digestive problems. It is also used as a food seasoning and to make tea.

Cultivars, Varieties & Sub-species

Indigofera alternans var. alternans
Indigofera alternans var. macra Baker

Flower, Seeds and Seedlings

The flowers of Indigofera alternans are pink or purple in color and have a five-petaled corolla. The seeds are small, black, and have a smooth surface. The seedlings are slender and have a single stem with small, oval-shaped leaves.

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Cultivation and Propagation

Indigofera alternans is a short-lived perennial that is best grown from seed. The seed should be sown in spring or early summer in a well-drained soil. The seedlings should be thinned to about 10 cm apart. The plants can be propagated by division in spring or early summer.

Where to Find Indigofera alternans

Indigofera alternans is native to the Indian subcontinent and can be found in dry, open areas, such as scrub and grassland. It is also found in some parts of China and Southeast Asia.

Indigofera alternans FAQ

What is the scientific name of Indigofera alternans?

Indigofera alternans

What is the common name of Indigofera alternans?

Alternating Indigo

What is the natural habitat of Indigofera alternans?

Dry grasslands, open woodlands, and rocky slopes

Species in the Indigofera genus

Indigofera asperifolia, Indigofera blanchetiana, Indigofera bongardiana, Indigofera campestris, Indigofera conzattii, Indigofera coronilloides, Indigofera costaricensis, Indigofera cuernavacana, Indigofera densiflora, Indigofera fruticosa, Indigofera guaranitica, Indigofera hygrobia, Indigofera jaliscensis, Indigofera kurtzii, Indigofera lancifolia, Indigofera latifolia, Indigofera lindheimeriana, Indigofera montana, Indigofera palmeri, Indigofera panamensis, Indigofera platycarpa, Indigofera pueblensis, Indigofera purpusii, Indigofera rojasii, Indigofera salmoniflora, Indigofera sphaerocarpa, Indigofera sphinctosperma, Indigofera tephrosioides, Indigofera thibaudiana, Indigofera truxillensis, Indigofera tumidula, Indigofera langlassei, Indigofera caroliniana, Indigofera miniata, Indigofera trifoliata, Indigofera zollingeriana, Indigofera prostrata, Indigofera incompta, Indigofera lespedezioides, Indigofera parodiana, Indigofera subulata, Indigofera tephrosioides, Indigofera micheliana, Indigofera curvirostrata, Indigofera hiranensis, Indigofera nugalensis, Indigofera pellucida, Indigofera drepanocarpa, Indigofera sabulosa, Indigofera kirilowi,

Species in the Fabaceae family