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white prairie clover
Scientific Name: Dalea candida
Family: Fabaceae
Category: Dicot
Growth: Subshrub, Forb/herb
Duration: Perennial
Other Names: TN (white prairie-clover)
White Prairie Clover (Dalea candida)
The White Prairie Clover, scientifically known as Dalea candida, is a native perennial plant celebrated for its ecological benefits and aesthetic appeal. It's a versatile addition to native plant gardens and prairie restorations, offering both visual interest and valuable resources for wildlife.
Considerations for Pets
- The text mentions that Dalea candida seeds are utilized by a diversity of birds and are protein-rich, which could be attractive to certain animals if consumed.
Nomenclature and Taxonomy
- Scientific Name: Dalea candida Michx. ex Willd.
- Common Names: White Prairie Clover, White Prairie-clover, Prairie Clover
- Family: Fabaceae (also known as Leguminosae), the bean or legume family
- Synonyms: Petalostemon candidum (Willd.) Michx., Petalostemon candidum
Distribution and Habitat
- Native to Central North America, ranging from Canada to Mexico.
- Occasionally found as an introduced species outside its native range.
- Frequently occurs in glades and rocky areas.
- Common in native prairies and prairie remnants, particularly in the Tallgrass Prairie region.
- Prefers well-drained, dry, sandy, or gravely soils and full sun.
Morphological Characteristics
- Perennial plant, typically unbranched or sparsely branched in the upper half.
- Grows to a height of 1 to 3 feet (approximately 20-50 cm).
- Stems are erect or widely spreading, slender, straight, and simple or sparingly branched above.
- Leaves are alternate, compound, odd-pinnate, and gland-dotted.
- Leaflets are spatulate, 2-3 cm long, and less than 1 cm wide, with 3-5 leaflets per leaf.
- Flowers are tiny, white, and arranged in a cylindrical spike measuring 1 to 3 inches long. Lower flowers bloom first.
Ecological Role
- Important component of midwestern prairie restorations.
- Provides food for birds (seeds), deer, antelope, livestock, and small mammals.
- Attracts bees and other pollinators, making it beneficial for pollinator gardens.
- Contributes to soil health.
Quirky Facts
- Before flowering, White Prairie Clover can be distinguished from Purple Prairie Clover by its leaves – White Prairie Clover has wider leaves.
Interactions with Other Organisms
- Seeds are utilized by a diversity of birds.
- Attracts bees, creating a pollinator-friendly environment.
- Often found growing alongside P. purpureum (likely referring to Purple Prairie Clover or a similar plant).
Additional Information
- Plant Symbol: DACA7
- Contributed by: USDA NRCS Plant Materials Center, Manhattan, Kansas.
- Mentioned in Dave's Garden, a community forum for gardening enthusiasts.