Lead plant

Lead Plant (Amorpha canescens) is a perennial shrub native to North America, particularly the Great Plains and Midwest regions. It is a member of the Fabaceae family, which includes peas and beans. The plant is known for its grey-green foliage and purple flowers, which bloom in the summer.

Description

The Lead Plant typically grows to a height of 1-3 feet, with a similar spread. Its leaves are covered in tiny, silvery hairs, giving them a greyish appearance that is thought to have inspired the plant's common name. The flowers are small, purple, and densely packed into spikes at the ends of the branches.

Habitat and Distribution

The Lead Plant is found in a variety of habitats, including prairies, open woodlands, and along roadsides. It is particularly common in the Great Plains and Midwest regions, but its range extends from Canada to Texas.

Uses

Historically, Native American tribes used the Lead Plant for medicinal purposes. The Oglala Lakota tribe, for instance, used it to treat heart conditions and respiratory issues. Today, it is primarily used in landscaping for its drought tolerance and attractive appearance.

Cultivation

The Lead Plant is a hardy species that can tolerate a range of soil types, including sandy, loamy, and clay soils. It prefers full sun but can tolerate partial shade. The plant is drought-tolerant and can survive in dry conditions once established.

Conservation Status

The Lead Plant is not currently listed as threatened or endangered. However, like many native plants, it faces threats from habitat loss and degradation.

See Also

• Fabaceae
• Great Plains
• Midwest United States
• Oglala Lakota

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