Whiteflower Prairie Clover

(Dalea albiflora)

Whiteflower Prairie Clover (Dalea albiflora)

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Climate Requirements

Precipitation 15" - 27"
High Temp. 82°F - 95°F
Low Temp. 23°F - 33°F

Summary

Dalea albiflora, commonly known as Whiteflower Prairie Clover, is a perennial subshrub or herb that can be deciduous or semi-deciduous. It is native to arid grasslands and open woodlands in the Southwestern United States and Northwest Mexico. This plant typically grows to a height of 0.5-2 feet (0.2-0.6 meters) and a width of 0.5-1 feet (0.2-0.3 meters), featuring compound leaves with small leaflets and a bushy growth habit. The Whiteflower Prairie Clover blooms profusely with white flowers from spring through fall, which are highly attractive to pollinators such as bees and butterflies. The flowers and leaves are notably oily and resinous, exuding a strong, pleasant, perfume-like fragrance that can linger on surfaces.

In the garden, Dalea albiflora is valued for its drought tolerance and long blooming period, making it an excellent choice for xeriscaping, native plant gardens, and as a ground cover in dry, sunny areas. It thrives in full sun and is adaptable to various soil types, provided they have good drainage. While it tolerates low water conditions, moderate watering can encourage more lush growth and flowering. This species is not commonly afflicted by diseases or pests, but overwatering can lead to root rot. It is also important to note that its resinous nature can make it flammable in fire-prone regions.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

  • Plant Type: Shrub, Subshrub, Herb
  • Height: 0.5-2 feet
  • Width: 0.5-1 feet
  • Growth Rate: Moderate
  • Flower Color: White
  • Flowering Season: Spring, Summer, Fall
  • Leaf Retention: Deciduous

Growth Requirements

  • Sun: Full Sun
  • Drainage: Fast, Medium

Common Uses

Bee Garden, Bird Garden, Butterfly Garden, Fragrant, Low Maintenance

Natural Habitat

Native to arid grasslands and open woodlands

Other Names

Common Names: Scruffy Prairie Clover

Scientific Names: Dalea albiflora, Dalea ordiae, Dalea gentryi, Parosela albiflora, Parosela watsonii, Dalea albiflora var. brevibracteata, Thornbera leucantha, Thornbera villosa, Dalea watsonii

GBIF Accepted Name: Dalea albiflora A.Gray