Amorpha canescens – Leadplant

General Information: Leadplant is noted for its usefulness as a pollinator magnet. From June to August, it is adorned with numerous spikes of pollinator friendly, fragrant, purple spikes. A valuable, deciduous semi-shrub in the legume family, its native range spans the Plains and Central US, and as far east as Illinois. Its habit is rounded, multi-stemmed, erect, and dense. Leadplant attracts dozens of pollinators while also fixing nitrogen. Leaves and stems have short, dense hairs, which give way to the greyish appearance, often said to appear as if dusted with lead. It was once believed, due to the plant’s greyish hue, that it could tell if there was lead in the ground. An ecologically valuable adaptable native prairie shrub. 

Cultivation Details: Throughout central North America it thrives in open spaces, often sandy soil, valleys, hillsides, streambanks, and woodlands or prairies where it is naturally found in well-drained open spaces. Leadplant is often used as a groundcover, shrub specimen. Suitable for any wildflower or meadow garden or for naturalizing, and to attract pollinators. A valuable plant for restoration projects. It develops a deep, extensive root system; thus, once established, very drought tolerant and also very useful for erosion control, but difficult to transplant. Growth rate is average to medium. Low maintenance. There are no serious disease issues or pest issues. Attracts moths, butterflies, small mammals, songbirds, and specialized bees. An indicator plant of healthy prairie ecosystems. Tasty to livestock and wildlife, may be browsed if there is wildlife pressure.

Growing Requirements: Plant in full sun to partial shade (at least 2 hours of sunlight). Blossoms best in full sun to light shade. Soil should drain well, or be occasionally dry. Naturally, leadplants thrive in dry, sandy, or rocky soil, but will also grow in loam- or clay-based soils. Neutral pH, between 6.0 – 8.0. Resistant to drought as well as poor soil. Very cold hardy, USDA Zones 2a – 9b.