Plant in full sun in a light soil. Grows 24 to 36 inches. Hardy to zone 4. Perennial - Lead Plant Amorpha canescens Lead plant grows like a herbaceous perennial, but with age and certain growing conditions can take on woody characteristics. It is one of the most conspicuous and characteristic plants of the prairie.
Most plants develop into small bushes with up to six basal stems.
It can be spotted easily among other plants by its brilliant summer foliage. The very silvery green color immediately catches the eye, which is caused by very pubescent leaves. Dark purple spike-like racemes rise above the foliage with larger flower bunches looking almost black. Unlike some wildflowers, lead plant has been studied quite extensively. J.E. Weaver's observations have given insight to its many attributes, especially its landscape versatility.