Persicaria tinctoria

Chinese indigo is an annual plant in the Buckwheat family (Polygonaceae) native to China and Vietnam. It had been used for many centuries in China for the blue dye extracted from the leaves. There are various types available but some may be difficult to find.

The plant will grow 2 to 4 feet tall and 1 to 2 feet wide and requires full sun to produce the blue dye. Grow in moist, well-drained, moderately fertile soil, alkaline for best results. They can be grown from transplants or seeds can be direct sown once the soil temperature is above 50 degrees. They may experience heat stress during the hottest part of the summer so mulch to help retain moisture. Fertilize with a balanced supply of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium

Spikey clusters of pink or white flowers bloom from summer into fall. The leaves vary per type and can be rounded, narrow or crinkled. The best dye comes from the larger leaves.

Use the plant for the home dyer's garden, see more information here. However, the flowers are showy and can be used in the border of a garden.

Insects, Diseases, and Other Plant Problems:    No significant problems