Four Seasons Landscaping Nursery Feb 2010 Do You Know Which Plant is the  2010 Perennial Plant of the Year?   If you guessed BAPTISIA AUSTRALIS, you are correct!   This Eastern US native is a member of the pea family and goes by the common name blue false indigo, wild indigo, and baptisia.  The plant's botanic name, Baptisia, is derived from the Greek, bapto, meaning to dip (dye) or immerse. It's common name, blue false indigo, refers to the use of this perennial by early Americans as a dye. In fact, Baptisia australis was the first ever subsidized agricultural crop in America.  Because it is native, it is very low-maintenance.  It should probably not ever be moved, and division is difficult because it has a tap root.  So find a permanent location (full sun is best) before you plant it.    Baptisia australis grows three to four feet tall and wide, and its shrub-like appearance makes it a great plant near the back of the border.  When first planted it may have only a few stems and may appear quite sparse, but by the time it is fully established in two to three years it really flourishes.  A peony cage or a similar support can be used if you want the plant to occupy less horizontal space, but it really is quite nice in its natural form.    Extreme hardiness is one of the plusses with Baptisia.  There are also no serious insect or disease problems.  Deer seldom take notice of it as it has an unpalatable taste.  The seedpods that form after blooming mature to a nice charcoal color and are very useful in flower arrangements.  In earlier times the pods were popularly used by children as rattles.   It is a true American beauty that also attracts a number of butterfly species.  Don't be without at least one clump. Four Seasons offers well-established plants that will be ready for sale by mid to late May. About Four Seasons Landscaping Nursery Thanks for subscribing to our newsletter.  We would love to hear your suggestions and comments!   OPENING FOR THE SEASON ON MARCH 20.   226 E. US Hwy 6 Valparaiso, Indiana 46383 Four Seasons Landscaping Nursery 219-464-4941    www.newsletter.fsln@comcast.net