SafePlants

Pink-globe Prairie-clover and Relatives

This page explores various Prairie Clover species, with a focus on Pink-globe Prairie-clover (Dalea tenuis) and related plants. Information is drawn from diverse sources, including plant databases, gardening communities, and wildflower resources.

Considerations for Pets

• Some varieties may have a milky sap.

Scientific Nomenclature and Taxonomy:

• Scientific Name: Dalea tenuis (Coult.) Shinners
• Common Names: Pink-globe Prairie-clover, pinkglobe prairie clover
• Synonym: Petalostemon tenuis (Coult.) Heller
• The genus name Dalea honors English apothecary Samuel Dale.

Related Species and Varieties:

• Dalea feayi (Feay's prairie clover, Feayi pink-tassels)
• Dalea purpurea (Purple Prairie Clover)
• Dalea candida var. oligophylla (Fewleaf White Prairie Clover, White Prairie Clover)
• Dalea villosa (Silky Prairie Clover, Downy Prairie Clover)
• Dalea searlsiae
• Dalea ornata

Distribution and Habitat:

• Natural habitat includes mesic prairies, gravel, sand, hill prairies, typical and sandy savannas, limestone glades, and sand dunes.

Morphological Characteristics:

• Dalea tenuis produces tiny pink flowers that bloom up a short spike.
• Flowers of Dalea species can range in color from pink to white, purple, and pink-purple.
• Flowers of some species are arranged in dense, globe-shaped heads at the tops of stems.

Ecological Role:

• Purple Prairie Clover (Dalea purpurea) attracts bees, butterflies, hummingbirds, and other pollinators.

Quirky Facts:

• A pink species of prairie clover was sent from Virginia to Philadelphia nurseryman Bartram in 1765. A tea was brewed.

Associated Plants:

• Often found alongside plants such as globemallow (Sphaeralcea) and milkvetch (Astragalus) in prairie environments.

Resources:

• Dave's Garden: A community for sharing gardening tips and ideas.
• Prairie Moon Nursery, The Planter's Palette, and Missi Wildflowers Nursery are mentioned as sources for seeds and plants.