Baptisia simplicifolia
We have yet to have anyone identify this strange Florida Panhandle endemic as a baptisia. The thick glossy-green eucalyptus-like leaves of Baptisia simplicifolia adorn the 3′ wide, deer-resistant perennial…not surprising that after living in Florida for the last 60 million years its skin is a bit tough. Interestingly, Baptisia simplicifolia doesn’t emerge from dormancy until late May or early June (late risers are common in Florida). Baptisia simplicifolia finally reveals its true identity in mid-July when the clumps are topped with short spikes of yellow flowers. Our plants have thrived since 2000 in our full sun rock garden among agaves and cacti.
