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whiteflower prairie clover
Scientific Name: Dalea albiflora
Family: Fabaceae
Category: Dicot
Growth: Subshrub, Forb/herb
Duration: Perennial
Other Names:
White Prairie Clover (Dalea candida)
White Prairie Clover (Dalea candida) is a native perennial known for its slender, upright growth habit and showy white flowers. It's a member of the legume family and plays a critical role in grassland ecosystems.
Considerations for Pets
- As a member of the legume family, it should be noted that species in the pea family (Fabaceae) may pose a risk. Consultation with a veterinarian before allowing animals to interact with this plant is advised.
Common Names
- White Prairie Clover
- Whiteflower Prairie Clover
- Scruffy Prairie Clover
- Thimbleweed
- White Tassel Flower
- Antelope
Taxonomy and Nomenclature
- Scientific Name: Dalea candida Michx. ex Willd.
- Family: Fabaceae (Pea Family)
- Order: Fabales
- Subfamily: Faboideae
- Synonyms:
- Dalea candidum Michx. ex Wild.
- Petalostemum candidum
- Petalostemon
- Plant Symbol: DACA7
Distribution and Habitat
- Native to North America.
- Commonly found in prairies, glades, and sandy or gravely soils.
- Extends south to Mexico.
Ecological Role
- Important prairie plant that contributes to soil health.
- Provides a pollinator paradise, attracting various insects.
- Seeds are utilized by a diversity of birds.
- Forage species for deer, elk, and antelope.
- Critical plant in grassland restoration.
Morphological Characteristics
- Perennial plant growing up to 0.7 meters (2ft 4in) tall.
- Unbranched or sparsely branched in the upper half.
- Alternate leaves with 5 to 9 leaflets.
- Bright green foliage.
- Flowers are tiny, pure white, and arranged in dense, cylindrical, elongated, cone-like heads (1 to 3 inches long).
- Showy clusters of white flowers appear like 'buttons', opening from the bottom of the spike.
Growing Information
- Prairie Clover seed should be sown directly outside in the late fall.
- Prefers full sun.
- Grows well in average, sandy, and gravely soils.
- Water seedlings occasionally until established.
- Develops slowly due to a long taproot.
Quirky Facts
- In Europe, especially Ireland and Scotland, the seeds of prairie clover were once ground into flour.
- White Prairie Clover blooms from June to September, often a week later than the purple prairie clover.
Further Information
- USDA NRCS Plant Materials Center, Manhattan, Kansas
- Kansas Wildflowers and Grasses