Common Name: Purple Prairie Clover
Scientific Name: Dalea purpurea
Native / Introduced: Native
Highlights / Main Uses:
~Pollinator
~Wildlife habitat improvement
~Rangeland/pasture
Height: 1-3 feet
Colors: Purple Pedals on long green spikes
Flowering Season: Summer
Soil Types: Most well drained soil
Tolerances: Some fire and drought tolerance
Sun or Shade: Full sun, patial shade
Minimum Precipitation: 14-18 inches
Lifecycle: Perennial
Planting Seed Rate: 5-8 lbs/acre
Estimated Seeds Per Pound: 210,000
Optimal Planting Season: Fall
Planting Depth: 1/4 inch deep
Category: Forb
 
Description:
Purple Prairie Clover is known for its summer blooming season when it displays striking pinkish-purple flowers arranged on elongated green spikes. This legume has a relatively low to moderate demand for water. It is both palatable and nutritious and serves as a nitrogen-fixing legume. Purple Prairie Clover finds utility in various applications, including pollinator support, enhancing wildlife habitats, and augmenting rangeland and pasture plantings. Additionally, it holds value as a crucial component in wildflower mixtures, wildlife-friendly plantings, and the reestablishment of vegetation in disturbed lands.
 
NRCS Profile: https://plants.usda.gov/home/plantProfile?symbol=DAPU5
NRCS Plant Guide: https://plants.usda.gov/DocumentLibrary/factsheet/pdf/fs_dapu5.pdf
NRCS Fact Sheet: https://plants.usda.gov/DocumentLibrary/factsheet/pdf/fs_dapu5.pdf