Blue False Indigo

The blue false indigo features purple, lupine-like flowers, which give way to inflated seed pods that turn charcoal black when ripe. Seeds rattle around in the blackened pods and at one time were popularly used as rattles. The plant's name refers to early Americans' use of this plant as a substitute for true indigo in making blue dyes. In Conservatory Garden, it can be viewed in the South Garden.