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catalogue of seed plants of the west indies Ossabaw Indigo (Sea Island Indigo) – Experimental Farm Network Seed StoreIndigofera suffruticosa Origin: Ossabaw Island, Georgia Improvement status: Feral Seeds per packet: ~35 seeds (roughly 25 pods) BOTANICAL SAMPLE NOT GERMINATION TESTED Life cycle: Annual or tender perennial It's an honor and a privilege to be offering these seeds. Because of Ossabaw Indigo's long and deep history, much of the reality of this plant's story will never be known. The most tragic details have been obscured by the legacy of brutal
Indigofera suffruticosa
Origin: Ossabaw Island, Georgia
Improvement status: Feral
Seeds per packet: ~35 seeds (roughly 25 pods)
BOTANICAL SAMPLE - NOT GERMINATION TESTED
Life cycle: Annual or tender perennial
It's an honor and a privilege to be offering these seeds. Because of Ossabaw Indigo's long and deep history, much of the reality of this plant's story will never be known. The most tragic details have been obscured by the legacy of brutal enslavement and oppression of African people. But there is much we can infer — and what we do know speaks of deep resilience of both plants and human beings.
The Sea Islands line the southeastern US coast from northern Florida to South Carolina. European colonization in the 1600s led to the violent expulsion of the region's indigenous people — including the Guale, Mocama, and Creek peoples — whose communities were swiftly replaced with massive plantations producing primarily rice and cotton with the forced labor of untold numbers of enslaved people. We know that slavery in the Sea Islands was part of a horrifying system of organized terror in which families were torn apart and people were treated worse than animals — and that this system generated wealth beyond belief for the white families who directed it using brutal violence and coercion. We also know that their descendants still benefit from all that wealth and that the white supremacist power-structure instituted during the days of slavery did not disappear with the abolition of slavery itself. Indeed, it persists in various manifestations to this day.
—
In the mid-1700s, Eliza Lucas — the 16-year-old daughter of a newly arrived British colonial officer — was put in charge of dozens of enslaved people and hundreds of acres. She is credited with launching the indigo industry in the Southeast (and, shamefully, still widely viewed as a symbol of female empowerment, despite the terrible cruelty inherent to her business). With seeds sent by her father from the Caribbean (where she was raised), and no doubt with the expertise of the African people her family kept in bondage (some of whom may well have had experience with indigo production in Africa), the Lucas family became incredibly wealthy supplying vivid blue dye to buyers in Great Britain.
The Revolutionary War led to the demise of the indigo industry in the Sea Islands after just a few decades, as the enslavers lost access to their main market. Rice and cotton once again predominated. During this time, many of the white people who claimed ownership of the islands actually lived on the mainland — unwilling to expose themselves to the isolation, malaria, and occasional hurricanes that mark life on barrier islands in the region — so this relative isolation meant that the African and African-descended people forced to work on the islands were able to maintain much more of their ancestral traditions than enslaved peoples elsewhere in North America. Eventually, the Civil War led white slavers to abandon their plantations completely for many years.
During the Union occupation of the islands and especially following the Emancipation Proclamation, the formerly enslaved people of the Sea Islands largely managed their own affairs. There were high hopes at the time that they would be granted ownership of the land — which would have provided some measure of justice and recompense for their decades in chains — but the government refused to enact such a program, and most of the white landowners eventually resumed control of the land. The formerly enslaved families then did what most of their cousins across the Southeast did: continued living on the land where they had been enslaved, eking out a living as sharecroppers, tenant farmers, and laborers.
But their relative isolation continued, and that in turn led to the ongoing flourishing of what is known today as Gullah-Geechee culture. Gullah language — which combines English and a multitude of African languages, including Menda, Vai, and Fulani — is still spoken by a few hundred remaining native speakers, plus a few thousand others. It is the only surviving African creole language in the United States. Beyond the linguistic connection to Africa, Gullah-Geechee cultural practices, including distinctive arts and crafts, traditional farming and fishing techniques, music, religious belief systems, rice-based foodways, and story-telling traditions, are all marked by clear West and Central African influences.
—
Ossabaw Island is the third largest of Georgia's coastal islands. With no road or causeway to the island, it escaped much of the development of the other islands (some of which have become opulent summer playgrounds for the rich and well-connected). Ossabaw was used by a handful of tenant-farmers through the early part of the 20th century, but by 1916 the whole of the island was owned by one man who used it as a hunting retreat (no doubt a favored target was the now-rare Ossabaw Island Hog, descended from a Canary Islands breed brought to the island by early Spanish colonists or adventurists). In 1924, it was sold to a wealthy Michigan couple from Grosse Pointe who used it as a winter home. Thankfully, in 1961, not long after ownership had passed to their daughter, Eleanor "Sandy" Torrey West and a brother, Mrs. West and her husband Clifford created the Ossabaw Foundation and the Ossabaw Island Project. The island soon became an artistic, scientific, and cultural retreat center. Luminaries including Ralph Ellison, Aaron Copeland, and Margaret Atwood are known to have spent time enjoying its natural beauty and solitude. In 1978, no longer able to afford to manage the operation, Sandy West and her brother's children negotiated a landmark agreement to sell the island (for half of its appraised value) to the State of Georgia as a permanent Heritage Preserve. The Georgia Department of Natural Resources technically controls it now, but the Ossabaw Foundation has a contract to maintain day-to-day management of the island, regulating access and use of historic areas.
In 2007, the Foundation's longtime manager of Ossabaw, the late Jim Bitler, realized that a patch of unassuming leguminous plants with small orange flowers was actually a type of indigo. He began growing some of the plants, and soon shared his discovery with a natural dye enthusiast named Donna Hardy, who further spread the news of this fascinating find and began offering workshops and working to create an artisanal Sea Island indigo industry to benefit the local community. Donna has also figured out the best ways to process the fresh leaves into vivid blue pigment. Researchers from Clemson University got involved as well, and it was quickly realized that the species of indigo growing on Ossabaw was not the common indigo (an African species known as Indigofera tinctoria), but rather a species commonly known as "Guatemalan Indigo" (Indigofera suffruticosa). Used by Central American peoples to create an especially vivid blue color, the pigment produced by this species is known as "Mayan Blue."
It's assumed by most everyone involved with Ossabaw indigo these days that this was the species cultivated on Ossabaw in the 1700s, and that it managed to escape cultivation and naturalize in the island's mild climate. We assumed this for a while ourselves too, but recently learned that Indigofera suffruticosa is considered a native species not only in Central America but all along the coast of the Caribbean, Gulf of Mexico, and Atlantic Ocean to as far north as North Carolina (and as far south as Argentina, believe it or not). The populations are rather disjunct, based on county reports listed on the USDA-NRCS's PLANTS Database, so it's entirely possible that each report represents another example of feral "Guatemalan Indigo," and that the species didn't reach the Carolinas until the past few centuries. But it actually seems just as likely that the plant was already on Ossabaw when Eliza Lucas arrived — brought there by birds or tides — and that the seeds she started with (known to have been sent by her father from the Caribbean) were the more commonly grown Indigofera tinctoria, or "true indigo," which didn't naturalize as readily (though is also found in the Carolinas). We'll likely never know anything close to the full story of this plant. But in any event, that this largely tropical species should have a range extending into the Carolinas is an impressive sign of its resilience and fortitude.
—
We were given our initial seed stock by Dr. David Shields, noted scholar, author, Southern foodways expert, and University of South Carolina professor. He told Nate they were grown on Daufuskie Island, SC. We figured it would require a very long season, so weren't optimistic about producing seeds in New Jersey, but we got a bumper crop the first time we tried it — spring-planted plants begin flowering for us in June — with enough seed produced in a 20 foot row to offer it in the catalog the following winter. Ossabaw Indigo has since become widely grown, and in the process it's managed to demonstrate an ability to grow well and even produce seeds as far north as New England. It's reseeded a few times for us in New Jersey — with little plants popping up far later than I would start them and that need attention from us in order to beat their weedy plant neighbors in daily competition — but I expect it probably could only naturalize if grown in a place with large patches of ground that lack weed pressure.
If anyone of Gullah-Geechee heritage would like to grow these seeds, please get in touch with us. We will keep some seeds in reserve and would be happy to send them to you at no charge. We will also be donating 25% of the cost of these packets to a Gullah-Geechee community organization (in consultation with Gullah-Geechee friends).
GROWING TIPS: Start indoors a few weeks before last frost, and plant out once all danger of frost has passed. Seeds should be planted half an inch deep. Seedlings don't mind being crowded, but ultimately plants should be spaced out by at least 8 inches. In New Jersey the tallest grew almost four feet during the season. They began flowering in June and were still flowering by the time frosts arrived in fall. We are selling seeds still in their pods, each of which contains between zero and four viable seeds. We recommend breaking up the pods before planting, but it's probably not required.
NOTE: Due to the scarcity of seed, we decided not to sacrifice the amount of seed required for a full germination test, but the small sample size we tested did result in some germination, so we are confident you will get some plants. If you are unsatisfied with your purchase, please contact us.
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4.4 ★★★★★
Based on 16 reviews
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Product Reviews
★★★★★ 5
A Fun and Engaging Playtime Essential for Active Dogs
Size: 18in, Style: Sport
The ChuckIt! Sport 18M Dog Ball Launcher has been a game-changer in our playtime routine with our energetic and playful dog. This innovative and well-designed ball launcher has become an essential tool to keep our furry friend entertained and active.
The 18" length of the launcher provides a comfortable grip for both me and my dog during play. It allows for effortless throwing, making fetch games enjoyable for both of us. The launcher's ergonomic design ensures a smooth and efficient ball-throwing experience, saving me from straining my arm during extended play sessions.
The inclusion of a medium-sized ball (2.5") with the launcher is a thoughtful addition. The ball's size and weight are perfect for our medium-sized dog (20-60 pounds), allowing her to easily grab and carry it in her mouth. The ball is also durable and can withstand the enthusiastic chewing of our playful pup.
One of the standout features of the ChuckIt! Sport 18M Dog Ball Launcher is its exceptional throwing distance. It allows us to launch the ball far into the distance, providing ample space for our dog to run and fetch. This extended range adds a fun and challenging element to our playtime, keeping our dog engaged and excited.
The durable construction of the launcher is commendable. It has proven to withstand rigorous use and outdoor play, making it a reliable and long-lasting investment for our dog's entertainment.
Additionally, the launcher's compatibility with other ChuckIt! balls makes it a versatile tool for various play styles and preferences. Whether it's a bouncy rubber ball or a flying disc, the launcher can handle them all.
Moreover, using the ChuckIt! Sport 18M Dog Ball Launcher has strengthened the bond between our family and our dog. It encourages interactive play, providing an opportunity for us to engage and connect with our furry companion while promoting exercise and healthy physical activity.
In conclusion, the ChuckIt! Sport 18M Dog Ball Launcher has been an absolute joy for our family and our playful dog. Its easy-to-use design, impressive throwing distance, and durability make it a must-have for any dog owner with an active and fetch-loving pet. We highly recommend the ChuckIt! Sport 18M Dog Ball Launcher, along with the included medium ball, for a fun-filled and active playtime experience that both you and your dog will love.
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Reviewed in the United States on August 3, 2023
★★★★★ 5
Essential kit for those with fetch dogs
Size: 18in, Style: Sport
Now in our 3rd year, my Brittany and I are down to about 40 fetch tosses a day, some 14,600 tosses a year. The Chuck It launcher wears well, so, figure at least 5 years of use, for 73,000 tosses. That makes for a terrific value!
There are several key benefits of the Chuck It launchers: One is that you can chuck the ball further than you can throw, which allows you to exercise your dog more easily. The second is that you can pick up and launch the ball without touching it, which means NO slime! And, the Chuck It also gives extra reach when you have to retrieve a ball from sticker brambles.
Those are great features for anyone with a fetch dog. If you also happen to have a weak arm or shoulder, the Chuck It launchers provide nice throwing options. I generally throw underhanded. I can't get the full potential range, that way, but, I still get good, long tosses. I curl my second finger above the last bump on the handle, and use a good wrist flick along with arm swing. I've seen others throw side-arm with the Chuck It.
I had originally written a second review for the longer 25M Chuck It. Either I, or Amazon messed up, and it looks like I can have only this one review. So, here are my additional thoughts on the 25M: I bought the 25M so that I could throw the ball even further! The good news is, you really can chuck further, with the longer chucker. The bad news is, those longer throws do require more arm and shoulder strength than when using the 18M. This becomes more obvious when you've done 3 or 4 dozen throws. I would recommend the 25M only for those with the youth and/or strength to get the most out of it. Otherwise, I'd say, go with the 18M.
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Reviewed in the United States on March 11, 2016
★★★★★ 4
Will buy again
Size: 25in, Style: Sport
Fits the bill.
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Reviewed in the United States on May 28, 2025
★★★★★ 5
Must Have for Tiring Out Your Pup
Size: 25in, Style: Sport
The Chuckit! Sport 25M Dog Ball Launcher is an absolute must-have for any dog owner with an active pup! This thing takes fetch to a whole new level—effortless long throws, hands-free pickup (no more slobbery tennis balls!), and a comfortable grip that makes playtime easier and way more fun.
My dog absolutely loves it, and I love that it helps her burn off energy without tiring out my arm. The included medium ball is the perfect size for medium to large dogs, and the durable construction means it's built to last. If you're looking for a simple but game-changing way to upgrade fetch, this is it. Highly recommend!
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Reviewed in the United States on February 13, 2025
★★★★★ 5
My Niece dog loves it!
Size: 18in, Style: Sport
This ball launcher takes a bit of getting. used to, but it is really helpful for those of us who are not MLB pitchers! The launcher itself is a sturdy plastic that is not brittle yet not soft; when the ball is launched there is no destructive bending in the shaft. The handle is padded and ergonomically sound while the cup end cradles the ball but has cut-outs on each side for easy loading and unloading of the ball. It did take a bit of practice for me to get the hang of it, but for my husband and son it was much easier. The launcher works well to help us older, non-gifted athletes launch the ball farther and faster while saving the shoulder, elbow, and wrist (important if there is any arthritis). The ball fits nicely into the cup and releases easily.
The 2.5 size was too small for my Doberman, so we opted for the 3.5 in launcher. This smaller launcher and ball are now in the employ of my sister and her husband for their retriever-border collie mix, an 18 month old little fireball!. This is just the right size for her. My sister's husband has difficulty with arthritis and is neither quick on his feet nor able to stand very long. So the launcher comes in very handy. He can actually sit in a lawn chair and throw the ball repeatedly when their dog retrieves and returns it to him. That is a win- win!
Top 3 Likes:
-Easy to use
-Helps older pet owner
-Drives the ball farther and faster
Top 3 Dislikes:
-With repeated uses the edges of the launcher appear to get scuffed and scratched
-Some ingrained staining on the edges persists requiring scrubbing to remove
-There is a mild worry that with time the launcher may snap
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Reviewed in the United States on September 4, 2024