Imagine a plant that attracts hummingbirds with its vibrant flowers, but is toxic to humans. It sounds surprising, but it’s true!
This beautiful perennial draws in these tiny, energetic birds with its bright blooms, making it a popular choice for bird enthusiasts. But, while the hummingbirds love it, humans need to be cautious – this plant contains toxins that can be harmful if ingested.
If you still want to grow it, here’s how to handle it with care and keep it out of reach!
The Hummingbird Magnet You Never Knew You Needed
Blue False Indigo is like the VIP section for hummingbirds in my garden. Once it’s established, it produces spiky, deep blue flowers that have hummingbirds flocking to it like it’s a nectar-filled nightclub.
The best part? It’s a blue perennial, so it comes back year after year, just like the birds. Plant it in full sun or partial shade, and give it plenty of space to grow, because it gets about four feet tall.
It’s the perfect plant for attracting hummingbirds (and, bonus, butterflies too!) – but of course, there’s the catch: toxicity.
This Plant Is Toxic To Both Humans And Pets
Okay, here’s where things get a little complicated. While Blue False Indigo is an absolute magnet for hummingbirds, it’s toxic to humans if eaten.
Even the sap can cause some nasty symptoms like nausea, vomiting, and blurred vision. Fun, right?
It’s not life-threatening (thankfully), but still – best to avoid it if you’re prone to snacking on your garden plants.
So, should you toss this plant out of your garden for safety? Well, you could; but if you really want the hummers to keep coming to your garden, there’s always a safe way to grow it.
How To Keep It Safe For Kids And Pets
If you’re like me, you probably don’t want to remove a beautiful plant just because it’s a little dangerous. But with a few precautions, you can still enjoy Blue False Indigo’s beauty while keeping everyone safe.
The key is placement – keep it away from areas where children or pets might be tempted to nibble. Most animals avoid it because of its bitter taste, but kids might need a little reminder to stay clear of it.
A simple “Don’t eat the garden plants” rule goes a long way!
Should You Still Grow It? Absolutely!
Yes, Blue False Indigo might have a dark side, but it’s also a superstar for attracting pollinators, which is always a win for the garden.
With a little care, you can enjoy the beauty of this plant, the antics of your local hummingbirds, and the extra buzz in your garden from butterflies and bees.
Just keep it out of reach of little ones, and you’ll be all set to host a hummingbird party in your yard!
In short, Blue False Indigo is one of those plants you can enjoy – just with a bit of extra caution. Trust me, the hummingbirds will thank you!