It blooms in late spring to early summer, with long-lasting indigo-blue flower spikes.

Decadence® Sparkling Sapphires False Indigo

Baptisia x 'Sparkling Sapphires' PP27,904

Proven Winners®

Patented Sapphire-Blue Spikes Rise Above Blue-Green Foliage for Stunning Late Spring Color
Thrives in Zones 4-9
Grows 2-3 ft Tall, 1-3 ft Wide
Showy Purple Blooms in Late Spring
Deer Resistant, Disease Resistant, Drought Tolerant

$44²⁰

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Plant Size

Product variants

Planting & Care

Where to Plant

Sunlight: Plant your False Indigo in a spot that receives full sun, meaning at least 6 hours of direct light daily. While it can tolerate very light shade, full sun is essential for producing the most vibrant violet-blue blooms and maintaining a sturdy, upright habit without staking.
Soil: This plant prefers well-drained soil and will struggle in soggy, wet locations. It is quite adaptable to poor soils, but if you have heavy clay, amending it with compost or planting in a raised bed will ensure the drainage necessary for its deep taproot system.

Watering Requirements

During the first growing season, water deeply and consistently to help the extensive taproot establish itself. Once established, Decadence® Sparkling Sapphires is remarkably drought-tolerant, though consistent moisture during extreme heat will keep the foliage lush and prevent the plant from going dormant early.

Pruning Tips

This plant blooms on new growth, but heavy pruning generally isn't required for this compact variety. You can shear the plant back by about one-third after flowering to tidy up the shape, but many gardeners leave the seed pods intact for winter interest.

Fertilizer Needs

False Indigo is a light feeder; a single application of a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring is usually sufficient. Avoid high-nitrogen fertilizers, as they encourage excessive leafy growth that can make the stems floppy and weak rather than supporting flower production.

Delivery and Shipping

Shipping Rates

Ships in 7-10 business days • Tracking provided • Weather protected

Under $50	$9.99
$50 - $99.99	$14.99
$100 - $149.99	$16.99
$150 - $198.99	$24.99
$199+	FREE

✓ Zone-specific timing • ✓ Professional packaging • ✓ Health guarantee

Understanding Our Container Sizes

At Nature Hills, our plants are sold in industry-standard nursery containers. You will notice we use the word "container" rather than "gallon." Container numbers follow a nursery trade size standard, not liquid volume. The number tells you the plant's size category and general maturity level. A larger container means a more established plant with a stronger root system.

Container Sizes

Quart

Plant age: 6 months to 1 year
Best for: Ground covers, perennials, ornamental grasses
What to expect: Our smallest and most affordable size. Well-suited for planting in multiples across a large area. Allow 1 to 2 seasons for full establishment.

#1 Container

Plant age: 1 to 2 years
Best for: Shrubs, perennials, smaller trees
What to expect: About the size of a large coffee can. A well-developed root system in a manageable size. Good value choice when you have time to let the plant grow into the space over a season or two.

#2 Container

Plant age: 2 to 3 years
Best for: Shrubs and trees where you want faster establishment
What to expect: A noticeable step up from a #1 in both plant size and root development. Good choice when you want visible presence without going to a larger size.

#3 Container

Plant age: 3 to 4 years
Best for: Most plants, most situations — flowering trees, shade trees, evergreen shrubs
What to expect: Our most popular size. Strong, developed root system. Plants in a #3 container make an immediate visual impact from day one. If you want a head start rather than waiting seasons for a plant to fill in, this is typically the right choice.

#5 Container and Larger

Plant age: 4 to 5+ years
Best for: Specimen plants, privacy screens, maximum instant impact
What to expect: Large, mature plants ready to make an immediate statement in your landscape. We also carry #7 and larger sizes for select varieties.

Why "Container" and Not "Gallon"?

Nursery container sizes follow an industry trade standard established for the nursery and horticulture industry. The number is a size designation, not a measurement of liquid volume. Actual soil volume varies by plant type, root mass, and growing medium. Using "container" is the accurate industry term. When you see #1, #2, or #3, think of it as the plant's size tier, not a gallon measurement.

Root Pouch Containers

Some Nature Hills plants arrive in a Root Pouch, a breathable fabric container made from 100% recycled materials. Root Pouches encourage denser root development through air pruning, which discourages root circling and promotes a stronger, more fibrous root ball at the time of planting.

Plants growing in Root Pouch fabric containers, showing the breathable woven fabric construction

There are two types. Knowing which one you have changes how you plant:

Degradable (brown or tan fabric): Plant the entire pouch directly in the ground. The fabric breaks down naturally in the soil over time.
Non-degradable (black or gray fabric): Remove the pouch before planting. Cut the bottom open with scissors, then peel the sides away. The fibrous root ball will hold its shape.

Not sure which type you have? Check the tag on your plant or contact us and we will confirm.

Full Root Pouch planting guide

Choosing the Right Size

Size	Plant Age	Best For
Quart	6 mo to 1 yr	Ground covers, perennials, grasses. Budget-friendly for mass plantings.
#1 Container	1 to 2 yrs	Shrubs, perennials, small trees. Value choice for patient gardeners.
#2 Container	2 to 3 yrs	Shrubs and trees where you want faster establishment.
#3 Container	3 to 4 yrs	Most plants. Immediate visual impact. Our most popular size.
#5 and larger	4+ yrs	Specimen plants, privacy screens, maximum instant impact.

Still not sure which size is right for your project? Our plant specialists are happy to help. Contact us and we will point you in the right direction.

Plant specifications
Plant Characteristics	Cold hardy, Native, Low Maintenance, Flowering, Deer-resistant, Clay Tolerant, Heat Tolerant, Drought resistant, Attracts pollinators, Non-invasive
Sunlight	Full sun, Partial shade
Height	2-3 ft
Width	1-3 ft
Watering Needs	Moderate
Preferred Soil	Clay, Loamy, Sandy
Growth Rate	Moderate
Growth Habit	Upright
Blooms In	Spring
Flower Color	Purple
Foliage Color	Green
Native	Yes
Pet Safety	Toxic to pets
Suitable Space	Outdoors
Botanical Name	Baptisia x 'Sparkling Sapphires' PP27,904
Species	x
Cultivar	Sparkling Sapphires
Class	Fabidae, Magnoliopsida
Does Not Ship To	AK, HI, ID, MT, PR

Decadence® Sparkling Sapphires False Indigo

Add a bold splash of color to your landscape with Decadence® Sparkling Sapphires False Indigo USPP#27904 (Baptisia 'Sparkling Sapphires'). This stunning perennial dazzles with its rich indigo-blue flower spikes that rise above elegant blue-green foliage, creating an eye-catching display in late spring to early summer.

As a member of the Baptisia family, this perennial is incredibly resilient, drought-tolerant, and low-maintenance, making it a perfect addition to any garden. Its deep taproot allows it to thrive in poor soils, and its long-lasting blooms provide essential nectar for bees and butterflies.

With its sturdy, upright habit and compact size, Decadence® Sparkling Sapphires is a perfect choice for borders, cottage gardens, and pollinator landscapes. If you’re looking for a showy, easy-care perennial that returns year after year, this False Indigo is a true garden gem! Growing fast to full size each spring, reaching 30-36 inches tall and wide.

Why You'll Love Decadence® Sparkling Sapphires False Indigo

The Decadence® series of Baptisia is a deliciously beautiful line of flowering ornamentals! The pea-shaped flowers rise high above the mounded foliage.

Vibrant Indigo-Blue Flowers – Eye-catching spikes of sapphire-blue blooms appear in late spring, lasting for weeks.
Compact & Sturdy Growth – Forms an upright, bushy clump that reaches 3 feet tall and wide.
Drought & Heat Tolerant – Hardy throughout USDA 4 to 9, and once established, this tough native thrives in dry, poor soils with minimal care.
Attracts Pollinators – A favorite of bees, butterflies, and beneficial insects.
Deer & Rabbit Resistant – Unpalatable to wildlife, making it a reliable choice for open gardens.
Low Maintenance & Easy to Grow – No need for staking, pruning, or fuss—just plant and enjoy!

Where To Plant Decadence® Sparkling Sapphires False Indigo

This hardy, long-lived perennial enhances a variety of garden styles:

Perennial Borders & Cottage Gardens – Adds bold color and structure to mixed beds.
Pollinator Border & Butterfly Gardens – Provides an early-season nectar source for beneficial insects.
High-End Bouquets – The tall spires look fantastic in cut flower arrangements.
Drought-Tolerant & Xeriscape Gardens – Thrives in poor, dry soils once established. The deep tap root makes Baptisia ideal for Rock Garden settings!
Native & Meadow Gardens – Pairs beautifully with Grasses, Coneflowers, and Black-Eyed Susans.
Mass Plantings & Accent Features – Looks stunning when planted in drifts or as a standalone focal point.
Division – Though deeply rooted, you can carefully divide these plants every 3-5 years to maintain their vigor if they seem to be struggling. Site them in a permanent spot, as their long tap roots resent being moved.

Baptisia Care & Maintenance

False Indigo is a carefree perennial that thrives in tough conditions with very little effort.

Sunlight: Prefers full sun for best flowering and strongest stems.
Soil: Tolerates poor, sandy, or rocky soil, but needs good drainage.
Watering: Water deeply in the first year; once established, it is extremely drought tolerant.
Mulching: A light mulch layer helps retain moisture and suppress weeds.
Pruning: No pruning required; cut back spent flower stalks in fall or early spring.
Fertilizing: Generally not needed; thrives in low-nutrient soils.
Winter Care: Fully hardy in USDA Zones 4-9; dies back in winter and regrows each spring.

Turn Your Garden into a Jewel Box with Sparkling Sapphires!

With its vivid indigo-blue blooms, low-maintenance nature, and pollinator-friendly appeal, Decadence® Sparkling Sapphires False Indigo is a must-have for any garden. The Decadence® Sparkling Sapphires False Indigo is an unforgettable addition to any garden, offering jewel-toned beauty, effortless growth, and pollinator-friendly charm. Order today and let your garden shine!

Order yours today and enjoy the brilliance of Sparkling Sapphires in your garden! Now available at Nature Hills Nursery!

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Frequently Asked Questions

Does Decadence® Sparkling Sapphires False Indigo spread?

No, it grows in a clumping form, slowly expanding but not aggressively spreading.

Can it grow in containers?

No. False Indigo's deep taproot prefers in-ground planting for long-term health.

When does it bloom?

It blooms in late spring to early summer, with long-lasting indigo-blue flower spikes.

What type of soil does it prefer?

It thrives in poor, well-drained soils and does not require rich soil or fertilizers.

Is it deer and rabbit-resistant?

Yes! Deer and rabbits avoid False Indigo, making it a great choice for wildlife-prone gardens.

Decadence® Sparkling Sapphires False Indigo

Baptisia x 'Sparkling Sapphires' PP27,904