Baptisia 'Lunar Eclipse' is a striking perennial that captivates gardeners with its unique color palette and sturdy upright growth. This cultivar offers stunning silvery blue foliage paired with dramatic dark purple flowers, providing a modern twist on the classic blue false indigo.
Height & Spread: 3 - 4 ft x 2 - 3 ft
Bloom Time: Late spring to early summer
Light Requirements: Full sun to partial shade
Soil Preference: Well-drained, moderately fertile soil
Watering Needs: Low to moderate; drought tolerant once established
Deer Resistance: High; deer typically avoid Baptisia
NATIVE STATUS
Cultivar of Baptisia australis, which is native to North America. As a hybrid selection, it maintains the hardiness and resilience of the species while offering unique ornamental features like its silvery-blue foliage and dark purple flowers.
WILDLIFE & INSECTS
Bees
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Attracts a variety of native bees, especially bumblebees, which are drawn to its nectar rich flowers during the blooming period.
Butterflies
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Provides nectar for butterflies including swallowtails and other species that favor open sunny spaces.
Other Insects
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Pollinators such as solitary bees, hoverflies, and even some beetles find the flowers of 'Lunar Eclipse' beneficial making it a helpful plant for increasing local insect biodiversity.
SPACING & LANDSCAPE USE
Spacing Recommendations
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Space plants 2 - 3 ft apart to give them ample room to spread and reach their mature size.
Landscape Placement
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Great as a statement plant in sunny borders, cottage gardens, or prairie style beds. It also serves well as a backdrop plant providing structure and interest throughout the season. Combine with other sun loving perennials for a visually dynamic landscape.
COMPANION PLANTS
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Echinacea purpurea (Purple Coneflower) - Complements the bold blooms and attracts pollinators.
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Rudbeckia hirta (Black-eyed Susan) - Offers vibrant contrast and shares similar sunlight and soil preferences.
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Asclepias tuberosa (Butterfly Weed) - Bright orange blooms contrast beautifully with Baptisia’s dark flowers.
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Monarda didyma (Bee Balm) - Attractive to pollinators and pairs well with Baptisia's upright form.
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Salvia nemorosa (Wood Sage) - Adds vertical height and blooms in complementary colors.