SafePlants

Dalea bicolor: Silver Prairie Clover

Dalea bicolor, commonly known as Silver Prairie Clover, is a plant with a fascinating history and ecological role. This page provides information about its taxonomy, distribution, habitat, and more.

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

• Scientific Name: Dalea bicolor Humb. & Bonpl. ex Willd.
• Common Names: Silver Prairie Clover, Silver Dalea, Silver Bush, Two-Coled Dalea
• Family: Fabaceae (implied by the "clover" common name, though not explicitly stated)
• Rank: Species
• Synonyms: Mentions Dalea bicolor var. argyrea (A. Gray) Barneby as a variety. Other potentially related species mentioned are:
  • Dalea albiflora Gray (Whiteflower Prairie Clover)
  • Dalea aurea Nutt. ex Willd. (Golden Dalea)
  • Dalea brachystachys A. Gray (Fort Bowie Prairie Clover)

Distribution and Habitat

• Dalea bicolor is found in habitats such as chaparral, arroyos along streams, and woodlands.
• It can also be found in disturbed habitats like roadsides.
• The text mentions potential presence in limestone areas, implying a certain soil preference.

Morphological Characteristics

• The text describes it as a shrub.
• Its foliage is described as gray-green or silver.
• The plant form is described as an upright, rounded silhouette.

Quirky Facts

• The common name "Two-Coled Dalea" is an interesting, less commonly used synonym.
• Illustrations of Dalea bicolor were created by William Jackson Hooker, suggesting historical botanical interest.

Further Information

• Dave's Garden: A community sharing gardening tips, seeds, and plants.
• Garden Guides: Provides plant information, identification, and uses.
• AllPosters.com: Offers prints of botanical illustrations of Dalea bicolor.