White Wild Indigo
Baptisia alba
Last reviewed: June 2026
Baptisia alba is a native wildflower found across the southeastern United States from Florida to Virginia. This drought-tolerant perennial produces striking white flower spikes from May through July.
Light
full sun
Water
low
Size
24"–48" H × 24"–36" W
Bloom
May, Jun, Jul
Native to
AL, FL, GA, NC and 4 more states
Pollinators
bees, butterflies
White wild indigo is a sturdy native perennial that produces tall spikes of white pea-like flowers in late spring and early summer. The plant forms an attractive bushy mound with blue-green foliage and develops interesting dark seed pods after blooming. It's extremely drought tolerant once established and requires minimal care.
Growing White Wild Indigo
Grow White Wild Indigo in full sun and low water. Mature plants reach 24 to 48 inches tall and spread 24 to 36 inches wide. Expect low maintenance to keep it looking intentional in a front yard.
In an HOA neighborhood
White Wild Indigo is an HOA-friendly choice. Maintenance level: low. Tidiness: 4 out of 5.
Works well in: front yard, foundation, street edge, mid zone.
- Plant may look sparse in first year before becoming established
Wildlife value
Host plant for orange sulphur butterfly, wild indigo duskywing.
The flowers attract native bees and butterflies, while the foliage serves as a host plant for several butterfly species including the wild indigo duskywing. The seed pods provide food for birds in fall and winter.
Common questions
- When does Baptisia alba bloom?
- White Wild Indigo blooms from May through July, producing tall spikes of white pea-like flowers that attract native bees and butterflies.
- Where is Baptisia alba native?
- Baptisia alba is native to the southeastern United States, including Alabama, Florida, Georgia, North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee, Virginia, and New York.
- What pollinators visit White Wild Indigo?
- Baptisia alba attracts various native bees and butterflies with its nectar-rich white flowers. The plant also serves as a host for several butterfly species including the Wild Indigo Duskywing.
- How much water does Baptisia alba need?
- White Wild Indigo is drought-tolerant once established and thrives in low to moderate water conditions. It prefers well-draining soils and can struggle in consistently wet conditions.
- Is White Wild Indigo HOA-friendly?
- White Wild Indigo is generally an HOA-friendly choice in the right placement, with low maintenance.
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.
Ready to grow White Wild Indigo? Add it to your garden in Pollinator Patch to track it and get season-by-season care guidance.
Not sure where to start? Take the 2-minute yard quiz