Leadplant - Amorpha canescens

Amorpha canescens, or Leadplant, is a small perennial shrub native to prairie openings in southern Michigan. It has a loose growth habit, only 2 or 3 feet in height, and it features slender flower spikes with bright purple-blue flowers frosted with gold stamens, and a long bloom time. The foliage appears silvery due to a sheen of fine hairs, and has a delicate, attractive shape similar to ferns.
 
Lead plant can have roots up to 15 feet deep. Since it puts so much effort into growing roots that last, it may take several years before the plant puts effort into top-growth and flowers. It may also be slow to sprout in spring after snow-melt. Leadplant is a butterfly and moth host plant and is very popular with bees. Although the woody stems may be deer-resistant when mature, the plant should be protected while young from deer and rabbits. Leadplant prefers full sun but tolerates part shade and is best in medium to dry loam or sand. Leadplant tolerates poor soils and fixes its own nitrogen.