Thermopsis villosa 9a first introduced to the mainstream

first introduced to the mainstream trade by NC's former Niche Gardens

While the overall effect is bright yellow

This slow-spreader has tiny yellow flowers and equally tiny pinhead-sized green leaves

Each leaf emerges with blue edges and a brilliant creamy center that gradually changes to dark chartreuse

It spreads widely via underground rhizomes

Thermopsis villosa 9a first introduced to the mainstream(aka: Thermopsis caroliniana) Thermopsis villosa is a North American (Maine south to Alabama) native baptisia cousin, that's lived in the shadow of its more popular relative. Thermopsis villosa jumps out of the ground in mid spring, developing 4' tall, upright, un branched spikes, each terminating in clusters of butter yellow flowers. Rich green foliage adorns this drought tolerant, easy to grow, clumping, sun loving native perennial.