Purple Prairie Clover

(Dalea purpurea)

Purple Prairie Clover (Dalea purpurea)

/

return to results
Previous Plant Next Plant

/

Dalea purpurea image
scroll forward scroll backward
scroll forward scroll backward
Estimated Native Range
Species Map Help

Summary

Dalea purpurea, commonly known as Purple Prairie Clover, is a deciduous perennial herb or subshrub native to the tallgrass prairies and open woodlands of the Central USA and Canada. It typically grows to a height of 20 to 90 cm (8 to 35 in) and is recognized by its deep taproot that can extend 5.5 to 6.5 feet (1.7 to 2.0 m) into the soil, which aids in drought resistance. The woody stem supports several branches, each topped with a spike up to 7 cm (2+3⁄4 in) long, densely packed with bright purple flowers that bloom in the summer. The flowers are highly attractive to pollinators and beneficial insects. The specific epithet ’purpurea’ refers to the purple color of the blooms.

Purple Prairie Clover is valued for its ability to prevent soil erosion and fix nitrogen, enriching the soil in which it grows. It thrives in full sun and is adaptable to a range of soil types, though it prefers those with slow to medium drainage. This plant is ideal for naturalized areas, prairie restorations, and wildflower gardens, where its showy flowers and environmental benefits can be fully appreciated. It is relatively low maintenance, but it can be susceptible to root rot in poorly drained soils.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

  • Plant Type: Herb
  • Height: 1-2 feet
  • Width: 1-1.5 feet
  • Growth Rate: Moderate
  • Flower Color: Purple
  • Flowering Season: Summer
  • Leaf Retention: Deciduous

Growth Requirements

  • Sun: Full Sun
  • Water: Medium
  • Drainage: Medium, Slow

Common Uses

Bee Garden, Bird Garden, Border Plant, Butterfly Garden, Drought Tolerant, Edible*Disclaimer: Easyscape's listed plant edibility is for informational use. Always verify the safety and proper identification of any plant before consumption., Erosion Control, Fragrant, Groundcover, Low Maintenance, Rock Garden, Showy Flowers, Street Planting

Natural Habitat

Tallgrass prairies and open woodlands

Other Names

Common Names: Purple Prairie-Clover , Purple Dalea , Purple Parosela , Violet Dalea , Violet Prairie-Clover , Dalée Violette , Prärieklöver

Scientific Names: Dalea purpurea , Petalostemon purpureus , Kuhnistera purpurea , Petalostemon molle , Petalostemon purpureum f. arenarium , Psoralea purpurea , Petalostemon purpureum var. molle , Petalostemon purpureum var. pubescens , Petalostemon purpureus var. purpureus , Petalostemon violaceum var. pubescens

GBIF Accepted Name: Dalea purpurea Vent.