‘Purple Smoke’ is a tried-and-true Baptisia cultivar with tall spikes of pale purple, pea-like flowers in spring. The blooms are soon followed by attractive greyish-black seed pods that continue to provide interest. ‘Purple Smoke’ is easily distinguished from other Baptisia by its dainty, miniature leaves.

Also known as “false lupine,” Baptisia make excellent lupine substitutes for southern gardens due to their heat and drought-tolerance. They prefer average to dry sites and will tolerate poor soil (meaning not very fertile). Baptisia resent root disturbance once established, so site ‘Purple Smoke’ carefully to avoid transplanting.

Baptisia ‘Purple Smoke’ false lupine is an excellent choice for cottage and pollinator gardens, where it will attract butterflies in droves. It is deer and rabbit resistant.