Status:
valid
Authors:
Benth. ex Harv.
Source:
ildis
Year:
1862
Citation Micro:
W.H.Harvey & auct. suc. (eds.), Fl. Cap.2: 168 (1862)
WFO Identifier:
wfo-0000194425
Common Names
- Indigofera podophylla
- Foot-stalked Indigofera
- Indigofera
Synonyms
- Anil podophylla (Benth. ex Harv.) Kuntze [unknown]
Description
Indigofera podophylla (also called Podophyllous Indigo, False Tamarind, and Bastard Tamarind, among many other common names) is an evergreen shrub native to the Caribbean and Central America. It has a spreading, bushy form and can reach up to 6 feet in height. It is found in dry, rocky, limestone soils and in areas with high temperatures and low rainfall.
Uses & Benefits
Indigofera podophylla is used for its timber, which is used to make furniture, flooring, and other wood products. It is also used as an ornamental plant in gardens and parks.
Flower, Seeds and Seedlings
Indigofera podophylla has small, pink flowers with yellow centers and long, slender seed pods. The seeds are small and black. The seedlings are small and have a single pair of leaves.
Cultivation and Propagation
Indigofera podophylla is a fast-growing deciduous shrub that can reach up to 10 feet in height. It is native to tropical and subtropical regions of Asia. It prefers full sun and well-drained soil. Propagation is by seed or cuttings. The seeds should be soaked in water for 24 hours before planting. Cuttings should be taken from semi-mature wood and treated with a rooting hormone before planting.
Where to Find Indigofera podophylla
Indigofera podophylla can be found in the tropical and subtropical regions of India, Nepal, Bhutan, Bangladesh, and Sri Lanka.
Indigofera podophylla FAQ
What is the optimal temperature for Indigofera podophylla?
Indigofera podophylla prefers warm temperatures between 65-75 degrees Fahrenheit.
What type of soil does Indigofera podophylla prefer?
Indigofera podophylla prefers well-drained soil with a pH between 6.5 and 7.5.
How much water does Indigofera podophylla need?
Indigofera podophylla needs moderate amounts of water, about 1-2 inches per week.
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