Pronounciation: Da-LEE-a POOL-kra

Hardiness zones:
Sunset 11-13
USDA 8-11

Landscape Use: Medium-sized xeriscape shrub for medium to large scale drip-irrigated landscaped areas.

Form & Character: Semi-prostrate and spreading, refined and light in appearance, almost delicate, grey, arid.

Growth Habit: Evergreen, woody, small broadleaf perennial shrub, moderate growth rate 4- to 5-feet tall with equal spread.

Foliage/Texture: Green small pinnately compound leaves, occasionally silvery tomentose; delicate fine texture.

Flowers & Fruits: Clusters of small magenta pink flowers, fruit inconspicuous.

Seasonal Color: Profusion of light magenta pink flowers during Spring (note that Dalea frutescens looks very similar but blooms during late summer and early fall).

Temperature: Heat tolerant and cold hardy to 15^oF.

Light: Full sun only.

Soil: Well-drained soils are required.

Watering: Indigo bush tolerates much drought once established. Water infrequently during summer to prevent excessive leaf drop as this plant is adjusts to dry conditions by shedding foliage.

Pruning: Prune with hand held pruners to control shape. Do not shear ----> but if you feel you must because you're working hard on your 'Hort clod' merit badge, then please do so infrequently and very lightly.

Propagation: Seed and cutting.

Disease and Pests: Root rot if drainage is poor.

Additional comments: Indigo bush is an informal-looking shrub that is great for xeriscape landscapes. Indigo bush makes a great contrast plant when placed in the landscape next to shrubs like Encelia farinosa (brittle bush).

Trivial pursuit factoid for plant freaks: There are 12 species of Dalea that are found in Arizona managed landscapes.