Contents
Description
Dalea Enneandra, commonly known as Nineflower Prairie Clover, is a flowering plant species native to North America. It is a perennial herb that grows up to 2 feet in height and 1.5 feet in width. The plant has a deep root system that aids in its survival during droughts, and its flowers bloom in late spring and summer.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Fabales |
| Family | Leguminosae |
| Genus | Dalea |
Appearance
Dalea Enneandra has an upright stem with blue-green leaves that are divided into 3-9 leaflets. Its flowers are arranged in clusters of 3-9, and each flower has a pink, purple, or lavender color with a yellow center. The plant also produces a seed pod that splits open when matured, releasing its seeds.
Care Guide
Dalea Enneandra requires full sun exposure to thrive and should be planted in well-draining soil. The plant is drought-tolerant and can withstand dry spells, but it still needs regular watering during the growing season. Fertilization is not necessary, but a balanced fertilizer can be added during the spring if desired. The plant is hardy in USDA zones 4-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Dalea Enneandra is generally resistant to pests and diseases, but it can be susceptible to root rot if planted in poorly-draining soil. Insects such as aphids, spider mites, and thrips can occasionally infest the plant, but they can be treated with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Habitat
Dalea Enneandra is native to the Great Plains region of North America and can be found in prairies, fields, and roadsides. The plant is also commonly used in landscaping and restoration projects due to its hardiness and attractive flowers.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Dalea Enneandra a good plant for wildlife?
A: Yes, Dalea Enneandra is attractive to pollinators such as bees and butterflies.
Q: How often should I water my Dalea Enneandra plant?
A: Water your plant regularly during the growing season, but allow the soil to dry out between waterings.
Q: Can Dalea Enneandra be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Dalea Enneandra can be grown in containers as long as they are large enough to accommodate the plant’s deep root system.
Q: How long does it take for Dalea Enneandra to bloom?
A: Dalea Enneandra typically blooms in late spring and summer, around 2-3 months after planting.
Related Plants
- Dalea Candida
- Dalea Purpurea
- Dalea Gaura
References
- “Dalea enneandra.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed 2 May 2021. <https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=281855>
- “Nineflower Prairie Clover.” Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center. Accessed 2 May 2021. <https://www.wildflower.org/plants/result.php?id_plant=DAEN>
- “Dalea enneandra.” USDA Plants Database. Accessed 2 May 2021. <https://plants.usda.gov/core/profile?symbol=DAEN>
