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dwarf prairie clover
Scientific Name: Dalea nana var. nana
Family: Fabaceae
Category: Dicot
Growth: Forb/herb
Duration: Perennial
Other Names:
Dalea nana: Dwarf Prairie Clover
Dalea nana, commonly known as Dwarf Prairie Clover, Dwarf Dalea, or Dwarf Prairie-clover, is a fascinating member of the Fabaceae (Pea) family. This plant, often found in prairie environments, offers both ecological value and visual appeal.
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)
- Genus: Dalea L.
- Synonyms: Dalea rubescens (Note: The text implies this may be a synonym, though the formatting makes this uncertain.)
Distribution and Habitat
Dalea nana thrives in a variety of prairie habitats, including:
- Mesic prairies
- Gravel and sand areas
- Hill prairies
- Typical and sandy savannas
- Limestone glades
- Sand dunes
Morphological Characteristics and Growth Habits
- Described as a forb/herb.
- Perennial plant
- Features pinnately compound leaves arising one per stem node.
Interactions with Other Organisms
- The Purple Prairie Clover (Dalea purpurea) is a known host plant for the Dogface sulfur and Striped Blue butterflies.
- Adult butterflies, including the Dogface sulfur and Striped Blue, feed on nectar from Dalea purpurea flowers, alongside other nectar sources.
Further Information
- Discover Life: Offers a page about the biology, natural history, ecology, identification, and distribution of Dalea nana.
- Encyclopedia of Life: Provides information on Dalea nana, including its family (Fabaceae).
- Garden Guides: Provides plant and gardening information for Dalea nana