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Schott Indigo Bush

Psorothamnus schotii

In stock

1 gallon; 5 gallon

Plant Care

Native region:

Local Native

Water needs:

Very Low

Exposure:

Mature size:

Growth rate:

Full Sun

4-6’x4-6’

Fast

Flower color:

Flower season:

Pruning:

Purple

Spring - Early Summer

None required

Wildlife

Monarchs:

Nectar pollinators:

Yes

Nighttime pollinators:

Rabbit resistant:

Yes

Schott Indigo Bush is one of my favorite native shrubs. It’s found in desert washes and sandy areas of the Coachella Valley. A highly branching shrub about 4-6 feet in height with green to grey-green spiny leaves about an inch long. The clusters of dark purple pea shaped flowers are shockingly fragrant and bloom in the spring following rain. From a distance it looks similar to the smoke tree. Plays multiple roles in a wildlife habitat with attractive flowers, seeds and provides needed cover. Of special value to native bees, a favorite to butterflies and hummingbirds and in our yard the chuckwalla go crazy for it each spring.

Growing Plants in the Desert — Important Information

The information presented here is, to the best of my knowledge, accurate and based on my research from reliable sources, observations I have made of plants growing in my, and other gardens I have visited, and observations of the plants in their native habitats. I would appreciate your feedback and experience to help me educate others!

Cacti: In my experience, cacti are much happier in the filtered shade here in the low desert of the Coachella Valley. Colors are more vibrant and they bloom more profusely, especially the non-native varieties. If you pay attention to how our native barrel and beavertail opuntia grow in the wild, it is frequently tucked in the rocks under creosote or another shrub.

Light Requirements: I have found that in our desert (Sonoran/Colorado) “full sun” plants can take and appreciate the late afternoon filtered sun, especially in the hot summer months.