Dalea purpurea

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Ooga 053 Petalostemum Purpureum (8) Dalea Purpurea Dalea Purpurea 6 Petalostemum Purpureum (20) Petalostemum Purpureum (18) Petalostemum Purpureum (11) Petalostemum Purpureum (10) Ooga 054
Ooga 053 Petalostemum Purpureum (8) Dalea Purpurea Dalea Purpurea 6 Petalostemum Purpureum (20) Petalostemum Purpureum (18) Petalostemum Purpureum (11) Petalostemum Purpureum (10) Ooga 054

Dalea purpurea

Common Name: Purple Prairie Clover

Purple Prairie Clover is a showy perennial that grows 1 to 3 feet tall, featuring striking purple flower spikes from June to August. It does well in dry soils, particularly sandy or loamy prairies, and is drought-tolerant due to its deep taproot. This plant plays an important role in soil enrichment by fixing nitrogen, benefiting surrounding vegetation. It is a great choice for prairie restorations, pollinator gardens, and xeriscapes, where it supports native bees, butterflies, and beneficial insects.

Characteristics

Product Form Plant, Seed
Type Forb
Sun Full Sun, Partial Sun
Soil Clay, Loam, Sand/Gravel, Calcareous
Moisture Dry, Mesic, Wet
Average Max Height (inches) 22
Suggested Plant Spacing (inches) 12
Bloom month(s) June, July, August
Bloom Color or Type Violet
Dominance Medium

Range Maps

Sowing Information

For most homeowners, the recommended method is to hand-broadcast seed at a minimum rate of 16–64 PLS (Pure Live Seed) ounces per acre. To ensure even coverage, broadcast the seed in perpendicular passes across the site. Grass seed should be broadcast first and lightly raked into the soil. Afterward, apply a light mulch layer using clean, seed-free straw or, preferably, our native Little Bluestem straw, available at our retail garden centers. Once mulching is complete, broadcast native wildflower seed over the area without raking it in. A good rainfall or thorough watering will provide sufficient soil contact for successful germination.

Planting Information

Dig a hole in your planting site slightly larger than the plant’s root system. When placing the plant into the hole, ensure that the soil line remains consistent with its original level in the pot. Fill in around the roots with the excavated soil, gently firming it to eliminate air pockets. Water the plant thoroughly the same day to promote successful establishment.