Leadplant

Amorpha canescens

a-MOR-fa kan-ESS-kens
2 to 4 ft.
3 to 4 ft.
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low to very low

purple with orange centers

mid to late summer

2 to 4 ft.

3 to 4 ft.

Yes

central North America

sun

USDA zones 2-8

hardy to 8,000 ft.

Leadplant is an excellent small shrub for low water areas. It grows naturally on the high plains of the easternmost counties of Colorado, so it is very tolerant of extreme weather conditions.

Slightly arching stems create an open rounded shrub with soft, gray-green, finely cut, fern-like leaves.

The flowers are fragrant and similar in shape to those of butterfly bush. The flowers are very showy at peak bloom, with a unique flower color combination of purple and orange. Prospers under hot, dry conditions.

low to very low

purple with orange centers

mid to late summer

2 to 4 ft.

3 to 4 ft.

Yes

central North America

sun

USDA zones 2-8

hardy to 8,000 ft.

Leadplant has grown very well in the low water zones at the Xeriscape Garden. When in bloom, the flowers are quite eye-catching. The leaves have a graceful appearance.

Site around other plants with winter interest since leadplant has thin, dull grey stems in winter.

Remove last year's spent flower stalks after the shrub has leafed out in spring. Remove any dead branches at that time.