Indian Indigo, Woolly Tephrosia

tephrosia villosa

Also known as: ["Wild Indigo","Catgut","Kasamarda"]

Family: Fabaceae Genus: Tephrosia Category: Shrubs

Overview

A deciduous shrub native to tropical and subtropical regions, known for its toxic properties and historical use in dye production.

Benefits & Perks

["drought tolerant","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]

Botanical Classification

Phylum: Magnoliophyta
Class: Magnoliopsida
Order: Fabales
Family: Fabaceae
Genus: Tephrosia
Botanical Name: Tephrosia villosa

Plant Characteristics

Basic Information
  • Category: Shrubs
  • Suitable Location: outdoor garden in a sunny spot, or container with good drainage
  • Suitable For:
    Collectors & Enthusiasts Wildlife Supporters
  • Is Weed: No
  • Allergenicity: moderate
Environmental Needs
  • Climate: {"temperatureRange":"10–35°C"}
  • Hardiness: {"zones":"8–11"}
  • Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
  • Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
  • Soil Type: Well-draining, loamy soil with added organic matter.
Maintenance Level
  • Maintenance Level: moderate
  • Toughness Level: moderate
  • Pruning Frequency: Annually in late winter or early spring before new growth begins.
  • Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of old growth if needed.
Care Details

Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours/day); tolerates partial shade in intense heat.

Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense sunlight; protect from harsh midday sun; adjust placement based on outdoor/indoor conditions.

Warning Signs: Yellowing leaves, root rot, or stunted growth indicate poor soil conditions.

Care Requirements

Care Difficulty
moderate

moderate

Sunlight

full sun to partial shade

Rotate plant for even light; use sheer curtains in intense sun; monitor for sunburn.

Watering

every 7–10 days during growing season, reduce in winter

Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure proper drainage; adjust based on season and growth stage.

Soil

well-drained, sandy or loamy soil

pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).

Ensure good drainage; avoid heavy clay; enrich with organic matter.

Temperature

Warm conditions (65–85°F/18–29°C); prefers stable temperatures; sensitive to frost.

Avoid drafts; maintain stable temperatures; protect from frost.

Fertilizing

every 4–6 weeks during active growth

Fertilize during active growth; reduce in dormancy; avoid over-fertilizing.

Propagation

Methods

Stem cuttings or seed; stem cuttings are more common for home growers.

Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
  1. Take a 4–6 inch cutting.
  2. Remove lower leaves.
  3. Apply rooting hormone.
  4. Plant in medium.
  5. Keep moist.

Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.

Environment

Warm (70–75°F/21–24°C), high humidity, and indirect light.

Medium

Well-draining mix like perlite and peat moss or cactus mix.

Hormone

Recommended to promote root development.

Timeline

Roots develop in 3–6 weeks; establish in 2–3 months.

Tools Needed

Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, well-draining medium.

Quick Tips

Use healthy parent stock; maintain humidity; avoid direct sun during rooting.

Pruning & Repotting

Pruning Guide
Method

Selective pruning of stems to shape the plant and improve air circulation.

Pruning Plan

Remove dead or overgrown stems to encourage bushier growth and better flowering.

Tools

Pruning shears, gloves, disinfectant.

Checklist

Sanitize tools; prune dead/damaged stems; shape the plant; clean up debris.

Repotting Guide
Best Season

Spring, before active growth starts.

Pot Size

One size larger pot (1–2 inches wider in diameter).

Method

Remove plant gently; trim roots if needed; place in new pot with fresh soil; water lightly.

Suggestions

Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for growth and flowering.

Checklist

Check root bound status; prepare new pot; trim roots; use fresh soil; water after repotting.

Advanced Care Tips

Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist

Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust for season.

How to Apply Water Properly

Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone; avoid wetting foliage; allow excess water to drain away.

Pro Tip: Water early in the morning to minimize evaporation and fungal growth.
Watering Schedule Tips

Water deeply once the top inch of soil is dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.

Soil Improvement

Add perlite or sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility.

Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues

Wilting, leaf drop, chlorosis, or stunted growth.

Cold Stress

Slows growth, causes leaf drop, and may lead to root damage in freezing conditions.

Solution: Move to a warmer location; insulate roots; avoid overwatering in cold.

Hot Stress

Leaf scorch, wilting, and reduced flowering in excessive heat.

Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity; water deeply but infrequently.

Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist

Check season; dilute fertilizer; apply to soil; avoid foliage contact.

Fertilizing Method

Use balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season; avoid fertilizing in winter.

Common Problems & Solutions

Yellowing leaves in Tephrosia villosa may indicate nutrient deficiencies, overwatering, or pest infestations, affecting photosynthesis and overall plant health.

Wilting in Tephrosia villosa can result from water stress, root damage, or disease, impairing nutrient uptake and leading to reduced growth and potential plant death.

Leaf spots on Tephrosia villosa are often caused by fungal or bacterial pathogens, leading to reduced photosynthesis, premature leaf drop, and weakened plant structure.

Rotting, particularly root or stem rot, can occur in Tephrosia villosa due to excessive moisture or fungal infections, leading to decay and eventual plant death.

Toxicity Warning

Cats
Toxic

Cats are highly sensitive to the toxic compounds in Tephrosia villosa, which can cause severe neurological and respiratory distress. Rotenone is particularly dangerous for felines.

⚠️ Symptoms:
vomiting lethargy difficulty breathing tremors seizures paralysis
🌿 Toxic Parts:
seeds roots leaves
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Prevent cats from accessing the plant. If ingestion is suspected, seek emergency veterinary care without delay.
Dogs
Toxic

The plant's toxic compounds, particularly rotenone, are harmful to dogs, affecting their nervous and respiratory systems. Ingestion can lead to severe poisoning and potentially fatal outcomes.

⚠️ Symptoms:
vomiting diarrhea weakness difficulty breathing seizures paralysis
🌿 Toxic Parts:
seeds roots leaves
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Keep dogs away from Tephrosia villosa. If ingestion occurs, contact a veterinarian immediately.
Humans
Toxic

Tephrosia villosa contains rotenone and other toxic compounds that inhibit cellular respiration, leading to significant physiological effects. Ingestion can cause severe poisoning due to the disruption of mitochondrial function.

⚠️ Symptoms:
nausea vomiting abdominal pain diarrhea respiratory distress paralysis
🌿 Toxic Parts:
seeds roots leaves
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Avoid ingestion of any part of the plant. Keep away from children and pets. Seek immediate medical attention if poisoning is suspected.
Important: Keep this plant out of reach of children and pets. If ingestion occurs, contact poison control or veterinary services immediately.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Is Tephrosia villosa safe for pets?

A: No, it is toxic to dogs and cats.

Q: What is Tephrosia villosa used for?

A: Historically used for dye production and traditional medicine.

Q: How toxic is Tephrosia villosa to humans?

A: It is toxic if ingested, containing rotenone and other toxic compounds.

Quick Reference
Family: Fabaceae
Care: moderate
Light: full sun to partial shade
Water: every 7–10 days during growi
Suitable For: ["collectors/enthusiasts","wildlife supporters (attracts bees, butterflies, birds)"]
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