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Creeping Indigo

Indigofera spicata

Last reviewed: June 2026

Creeping Indigo (Indigofera spicata)
Photo: Bob Peterson from North Palm Beach, Florida, Planet Earth! / Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA 2.0)

Light

full sun

Water

low

Size

6"–12" H × 12"–24" W

Bloom

Mar, Apr, May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep

Native to

AL, FL

Pollinators

bees, butterflies

Creeping indigo is a low-growing groundcover that produces spikes of small pink to purple flowers for much of the growing season. This drought-tolerant native spreads to form dense mats, making it useful for covering large areas or slopes.

In an HOA neighborhood

Creeping Indigo takes more care to keep looking intentional in a front yard. Maintenance level: low. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.

Works well in: backyard only.

  • Spreading groundcover habit may appear uncontrolled
  • Low height creates informal appearance
  • May be confused with weedy species

Wildlife value

The long blooming period provides nectar for bees and butterflies from spring through fall. The dense growth habit also offers shelter for small beneficial insects.

Native range data from the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists. Pollinator and host plant associations compiled from GBIF, iNaturalist, and published ecological literature.

Does Creeping Indigo fit your yard? Open it in Pollinator Patch to check it against your sun, soil, and HOA-conscious filters.