False Indigo Bush - Amorpha fruiticosa
 
Amorpha fruticosa, False Indigo Bush, is a deciduous native shrub in the Fabaceae (bean) family. Naturally found in moist, open woodlands, roadsides, canyons, floodplains, streams, pond banks and along swamp edges. The genus name Amorpha is Greek for amorphos, meaning formless or deformed, which refers to the flowers having only one petal, which is very different from other members of pea family. The pinnately compound leaves provide seasonal interest, clustered at the upper third of the plant and giving a fine texture and airy appearance. It spreads easily by seeds and suckers and can form dense thickets which pruning can help prevent. This plant is excellent in a woodland or bog garden, along a pond margin or stream bank. Spreads 6-15 ft. wide and reaches 4-12 ft. wide.