SafePlants

Dalea nana: Dwarf Prairie Clover

Dalea nana, commonly known as Dwarf Prairie Clover, is a charming wildflower belonging to the Fabaceae (Pea) family. Its compact size and delicate flowers make it a delightful addition to prairie landscapes and gardens.

Considerations for Pets

• As a member of the Fabaceae (Pea) family, it is worth noting that some legumes can cause gastrointestinal upset in pets if ingested in large quantities.

Considerations for Children

• As a member of the Fabaceae (Pea) family, it is worth noting that some legumes can cause gastrointestinal upset in children if ingested in large quantities.

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

• Scientific Name: Dalea nana Torr. ex A. Gray
• Common Names: Dwarf Prairie Clover, Dwarf Dalea
• Family: Fabaceae (Pea Family)
• Synonyms: Dwarf Prairie-clover, DALEA RUBESCENS (Note: This may be a misspelling or outdated synonym; further verification is needed.)
• Taxonomic Rank: Species

Distribution and Habitat

• Dalea nana thrives in mesic prairies, gravelly and sandy soils, hill prairies, typical and sandy savannas, limestone glades, and sand dunes.

Morphological Characteristics and Growth Habits

• Members of the genus Dalea are commonly known as prairie clover or indigo bush.
• The plant features pinnately compound leaves, arising one per stem node.

Interactions with Other Organisms

• Purple Prairie Clover (Dalea purpurea), another member of the same genus, is used as a host plant by the Dogface sulfur and Striped Blue butterflies. While not directly stated for Dalea nana, it is possible it shares similar ecological roles.

Related Species

• Other Dalea species mentioned include:
  • Dalea bartonii (Warnock's Prairie Clover)
  • Dalea brachystachys (Fort Bowie Prairie Clover)
  • Dalea candida (White Prairie Clover)
  • Dalea foliosa (Leafy Prairie-clover - a Federal Endangered species)
  • Dalea myriadenia
  • Dalea ornata (Blue Mountain prairie-clover)
  • Dalea purpurea (Purple Prairie Clover)
• Other plants mentioned:
  • Iris cristata (Dwarf Crested Iris)
  • Baptisia bracteata (Prairie indigo)
  • Amorpha nana (Dwarf false indigo)

Further Information

• Discover Life: Dalea nana - Dwarf prairie clover -- Discover Life
• Encyclopedia of Life: Encyclopedia of Life (Search for Dalea nana)
• Garden Guides: Learn all about the Dwarf Prairie Clover (Nana) and gardening on Garden Guides.
• Western New Mexico University Department of Natural Sciences