SafePlants

Dalea nana: Dwarf Prairie Clover

Dalea nana, commonly known as Dwarf Prairie Clover, is a charming member of the plant kingdom often found gracing prairies and similar habitats.

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

• Scientific Name: Dalea nana Torr. ex A. Gray
• Common Names: Dwarf Prairie Clover, Dwarf Dalea, Dwarf Prairie-clover
• Family: Fabaceae (Pea Family or Legume Family)
• Genus: Dalea L.
• Synonyms: Dalea rubescens (note: this appears to be included erroneously in the provided text)

Distribution and Habitat

Dalea nana thrives in a variety of prairie-like environments. Its natural habitat includes:

• Mesic prairies
• Gravel and sand
• Hill prairies
• Typical and sandy savannas
• Limestone glades
• Sand dunes

Morphological Characteristics

This plant is a perennial forb/herb.

Ecological Role

Members of the Dalea genus, including Dalea nana, are commonly known as prairie clover or indigo bush and play a role in prairie ecosystems. They can be a staple legume in diverse plantings.

Interactions with Other Organisms

Purple Prairie Clover (Dalea purpurea), a relative of Dwarf Prairie Clover, serves as a host plant for certain butterfly species, such as the Dogface Sulfur and Striped Blue. Adults consume nectar from flowers.

Related Species

Other Dalea species include:

• Dalea bartonii (Warnock's Prairie Clover)
• Dalea brachystachys (Fort Bowie Prairie Clover)
• Dalea foliosa (Leafy Prairie-clover, a federally endangered species)
• Dalea purpurea (Purple Prairie Clover)
• Dalea candida (White Prairie Clover)
• Dalea ornata (Blue Mountain Prairie-clover)
• Dalea bicolor (Silver Prairie Clover)

Further Information

Additional information can be found at:

• Discover Life
• Encyclopedia of Life
• Garden Guides
• Western New Mexico University Department of Natural Sciences