Indigofera tinctoria, commonly known as True Indigo, is a deciduous legume shrub that typically grows to a height of 3-7 feet. It is characterized by its light green pinnate leaves and clusters of pink or violet flowers that bloom in the summer. The exact native habitat of True Indigo is difficult to pinpoint due to its extensive cultivation for the production of indigo dye, but it is believed to originate from tropical and subtropical regions of the Indian subcontinent and mainland Southeast Asia as well as Western Africa from Tanzania to South Africa. In its natural environment, it is often found in open woodlands and grasslands.

True Indigo is valued for its historical use in producing a natural blue dye, which has been replaced by synthetic dyes in modern times. In the garden, it can serve as an ornamental plant due to its attractive foliage and flowers. It prefers full sun to partial shade and requires well-drained soil. While it can tolerate drought, moderate watering will keep it healthy. True Indigo can be used in border plantings or as a specimen shrub. Gardeners should be aware that it can become invasive in certain climates, so it is essential to check local regulations before planting.CC BY-SA 4.0