Amorpha canescens

The lead plant is a deciduous semi-shrub in the legume family (Fabaceae) native to central North America, typically found growing in well-drained open spaces such as sandy flats and valleys, hillsides, streambanks, woodlands, glades, and prairies. The genus name comes from the Greek meaning shapeless or deformed in reference to the corolla of this pea family genus lacking wings and a keel. Specific epithet means with off-white or ashy-grey hairs in reference to the leaves and twigs.

The lead plant grows 1 to 3 feet tall and spreads 2 to 2.5 feet. It does best in full sun in sandy or rocky, well-drained soil but is not too particular about soil type. It is drought-tolerant, and as a legume, it fixes nitrogen in the soil.  If grown in a shady location, it will sprawl along the ground towards a sunnier area. Its roots can reach depths up to 4 feet and sometimes deeper, helping the plant to survive wildfires. It needs to be protected from deer, rabbits and other herbivores.  

Its tiny purple flowers are grouped in showy terminal spikes.  The leaves and stems are covered with short, dense hairs.  This covering gives a gray tint to the leaves, making the plant appear as if it had been dusted with lead, hence the common name. It was once believed that the plant indicated there was lead in the ground.

The best use for the lead plant is in naturalized areas as a wildflower garden, meadow or prairie.

Insects, Diseases and Other Plant Problems: Although this plant has no serious disease or insect problems, there is some susceptibility to leaf spots, rust, canker, and powdery mildew.