Indigofera cassioides
Indigofera cassioides
Educational content — not medical, botanical, or professional advice. Plant identification, safety, and edibility depend on local conditions, cultivars, and correct identification. Consult a qualified botanist or forager before consuming or handling wild specimens. How we source & review →
Pl. F0D3 — Indigofera cassioides
Indigofera cassioidesIndigofera cassioidesIndigofera cassioidesIndigofera cassioidesIndigofera cassioidesIndigofera cassioidesIndigofera cassioidesIndigofera cassioidesIndigofera cassioidesIndigofera cassioidesIndigofera cassioidesIndigofera cassioidesIndigofera cassioidesIndigofera cassioides
IOverview
Overview
Indigofera cassioides, a member of the legume family, is native to regions including Assam, Bangladesh, Cambodia, China's South-Central and Southeast areas, East and West Himalayas, India, Laos, Myanmar, Nepal, Pakistan, Taiwan, Thailand, and Vietnam. This plant thrives in moist conditions with light soil that is either sandy or medium in texture and prefers full sun. Known for its edible flowers, it can grow up to 3.5 meters tall and is hardy in zones 8-11. Its versatility as an ornamental and culinary addition makes it a valuable plant in gardens and landscapes across its native range.
Quick answers
What is Indigofera cassioides?
Indigofera cassioides, a member of the legume family, is native to regions including Assam, Bangladesh, Cambodia, China's South-Central and Southeast areas, East and West Himalayas, India, Laos, Myanmar, Nepal, Pakistan, Taiwan, Thailand, and Vietnam.
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
VCultivation
Cultivation
Indigofera cassioides thrives in full sun and prefers moist, well-drained soil that is light (sandy) to medium in texture. It is hardy in zones 8-11 and can grow up to 3.5 meters tall. For cultivation, ensure the plant receives ample sunlight and regular watering to maintain its health. Propagation can be done through seeds or cuttings. The edible parts of this plant include the flowers.
Light
Full sun
Water
Moist
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium
Hardiness
8-11
Mature size
3.5 m tall
For first-time growers
How to grow Indigofera cassioides for the first time
8steps
Start with Indigofera cassioides by planting it in a sunny spot and providing basic care.
- 1
What you'll need
A young plant or seeds, a pot if container gardening, and some compost.
- 2
Best time to plant
Plant Indigofera cassioides in spring when the soil is moist and warm.
- 3
Soil and container prep
Use well-draining soil with a mix of light (sandy) and medium textures. Ensure containers have drainage holes.
- 4
Sowing or transplanting
Transplant young plants directly into the garden or start seeds indoors 4-6 weeks before the last frost, then plant outdoors.
- 5
First two weeks
Water regularly to keep soil moist. Shield from strong sun if necessary and protect from pests.
- 6
Ongoing care
Provide full sun exposure and water when the top inch of soil feels dry. Prune lightly in spring to maintain shape.
- 7
Harvest or pruning
Prune Indigofera cassioides after flowering to encourage new growth and a bushier appearance.
- 8
Common mistakes
Overwatering, planting in heavy soil, not providing enough sunlight, neglecting regular pruning, and using too much fertilizer.
VIEdible & utility
Edible & utility
Edible parts:Flowers
Edible uses: The flowers of Indigofera cassioides are edible and can be consumed raw or used to make a light tea. They add a mild flavor to dishes and are often incorporated into beverages for their subtle taste.
Other uses:Fire starterLumberNitrogen fixer
Contextrange · companions · related
VIIDistribution
15 native · 2 introduced
Distribution
15 native · 2 introducedDistribution across2 continents· 15 native· 2 introduced
Asia12 regions
native (11)BangladeshCambodiaChinaIndiaLaosMyanmarNepalPakistanTaiwanThailandVietnam
introduced (1)Sri Lanka
Africa1 region
introduced (1)Kenya
Broader regions
native:East Himalaya, West Himalaya
IXSpecimen gallery
1 image
Specimen gallery
1 imageXI
Explore further
Companion planting
Growing zone
XII
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