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Description
The Dalea Lanata, also known as the woolly prairie clover, is a perennial herbaceous plant that belongs to the legume family. It is native to North America, particularly in the central and western regions of the United States. This plant can grow up to two feet tall and has a spread of about two feet. It has gray-green leaves that are covered with fine hairs, giving it a woolly appearance. The Dalea Lanata produces small pink to purple flowers that bloom in the summer, followed by small seed pods.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Fabales |
| Family | Fabaceae |
| Genus | Dalea |
Appearance
The Dalea Lanata has a unique appearance that makes it stand out in any garden. Its leaves are gray-green and covered with fine hairs, which give it a woolly texture. The plant can grow up to two feet tall and has a spread of about two feet. It produces small pink to purple flowers that bloom in the summer, followed by small seed pods. The flowers are arranged in clusters that are about two inches long. The leaves and flowers of the Dalea Lanata are both attractive and can add a pop of color to any garden.
Care Guide
The Dalea Lanata is a low-maintenance plant that is easy to care for. Here are some tips on how to care for this plant:
- Water: The Dalea Lanata is drought-tolerant and does not require frequent watering. Water the plant deeply once a week during the growing season and reduce watering during the winter.
- Fertilization: The plant does not require fertilization but can benefit from a slow-release fertilizer once a year in the spring.
- Soil: The Dalea Lanata prefers well-draining soil that is fertile and slightly acidic. It can grow in sandy, loamy, or clay soils.
- Sunlight: The plant prefers full sun but can tolerate partial shade.
- Hardiness Zones: The Dalea Lanata can grow in USDA hardiness zones 4-8.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Dalea Lanata is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, it can be affected by spider mites, aphids, and root rot. Spider mites and aphids can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil. Root rot can be prevented by ensuring that the soil is well-draining and not overwatering the plant.
Habitat
The Dalea Lanata is native to North America, particularly in the central and western regions of the United States. It can be found in prairies, meadows, and open woodlands. The plant is adapted to dry and arid environments and is drought-tolerant.
Question and Answer
Q: Is the Dalea Lanata deer-resistant?
A: Yes, the Dalea Lanata is deer-resistant.
Q: Can the Dalea Lanata be grown in containers?
A: Yes, the Dalea Lanata can be grown in containers as long as the container is large enough to accommodate the plant’s root system.
Q: Does the Dalea Lanata attract pollinators?
A: Yes, the Dalea Lanata attracts bees, butterflies, and other pollinators.
Q: Can the Dalea Lanata be propagated from cuttings?
A: Yes, the Dalea Lanata can be propagated from stem cuttings taken in the summer.
Related Plants
- Dalea Purpurea
- Dalea Candida
- Dalea Albiflora
- Dalea Glaucifolia
References
- “Dalea Lanata.” Missouri Botanical Garden. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=h220
- “Woolly Prairie Clover.” Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center. https://www.wildflower.org/plants/result.php?id_plant=DALA3
- “Dalea Lanata – Woolly Prairie Clover.” Plant Encyclopedia. https://plantcaretoday.com/dalea-lanata.html
