Indigofera hirsuta, commonly known as Hairy Indigo, is an annual plant in the Fabaceae family. It is native to seasonally dry tropical climates and is often found in disturbed areas, grasslands, and open woodlands. The plant is known for its hairy stems and leaves, and it produces small, pink to purple flowers. It is used in traditional medicine and as a cover crop to improve soil fertility.
Hairy Indigo prefers full sunlight and should be grown in areas where it can receive direct bright light for most of the day. It thrives in warm temperatures and moderate humidity. Water the plant when the soil is almost completely dry, but avoid waterlogging. It is relatively easy to care for but requires attention to its light and water needs.
土壌
Indigofera hirsuta prefers well-draining loamy soil. The soil should be allowed to dry out almost completely between waterings to prevent root rot. It can tolerate a range of soil types but performs best in moderately fertile soil with good drainage.
肥料
Use a balanced fertilizer with a nutrient composition of 5-10-10. Fertilize the plant during the growing season to support its growth and flowering. Avoid over-fertilizing, as this can lead to excessive foliage growth at the expense of flowers.
植え替え
As an annual plant, Indigofera hirsuta does not typically require repotting. However, if grown in containers, ensure the pot has good drainage and consider refreshing the soil annually to maintain fertility.
伝搬
Indigofera hirsuta can be propagated from seeds. Sow the seeds in well-draining soil during the warm season. Keep the soil moist until germination occurs, which usually takes a few weeks. Thin the seedlings to allow adequate space for growth.
剪定
Pruning is not generally required for Indigofera hirsuta. However, you can trim back any dead or damaged stems to maintain the plant's appearance and health.
毒性
Indigofera hirsuta is not known to be toxic to pets or humans. However, as with all plants, it is advisable to prevent pets and children from ingesting any part of the plant.