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Description
Dalea Polygonoides, commonly known as tall prairie clover, is a perennial plant that belongs to the Fabaceae family. It is native to the central United States and can be found in various habitats, including prairies, meadows, and open woodlands. The plant can grow up to 3 feet tall and has a spread of 2-3 feet. It produces small purple flowers that bloom from June to September and attract pollinators such as bees and butterflies.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Fabales |
| Family | Fabaceae |
| Genus | Dalea |
Appearance
Dalea Polygonoides has a long, slender stem that is covered with fine hairs. Its leaves are thin and narrow, with a bluish-green color and a length of 1-3 inches. The plant produces small, densely packed spikes of purple flowers that are about 1/4 inch in size. The flowers have a sweet, pleasant fragrance and bloom from June to September. After blooming, the plant produces small, bean-like pods that contain the seeds.
Care Guide
Dalea Polygonoides is a low-maintenance plant that is easy to care for. It prefers well-drained soil and full sunlight, but can tolerate partial shade. The plant is drought-tolerant and does not require frequent watering, but it should be watered deeply when the soil is dry. Fertilization is not necessary, but a light application of a balanced fertilizer in the spring can help promote growth. The plant is hardy in USDA zones 3-8.
Common Pests & Diseases
Dalea Polygonoides is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, it may occasionally be affected by spider mites, aphids, or powdery mildew. These can be treated with insecticidal soap or neem oil. Overwatering can also lead to root rot, so it is important to avoid this by allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.
Habitat
Dalea Polygonoides is native to the central United States and can be found in various habitats, including prairies, meadows, and open woodlands. The plant prefers well-drained soil and full sunlight, but can tolerate partial shade. It is an important food source for pollinators such as bees and butterflies.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Dalea Polygonoides a good plant for attracting pollinators?
A: Yes, Dalea Polygonoides produces small purple flowers that are attractive to bees and butterflies.
Q: Can Dalea Polygonoides be grown in containers?
A: While it is possible to grow Dalea Polygonoides in containers, it is not recommended as the plant prefers well-drained soil and can grow up to 3 feet tall.
Q: How often should I water Dalea Polygonoides?
A: Dalea Polygonoides is drought-tolerant and does not require frequent watering. Water deeply when the soil is dry.
Q: Is Dalea Polygonoides a good plant for erosion control?
A: Yes, Dalea Polygonoides has a deep root system and can help stabilize soil on slopes and hillsides.
Related Plants
- Dalea Candida
- Dalea Purpurea
- Dalea Schottii
References
- “Dalea Polygonoides.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed August 23, 2021. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=280259&isprofile=0&basic=Dalea%20polygonoides.
- “Dalea Polygonoides.” Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center. Accessed August 23, 2021. https://www.wildflower.org/plants/result.php?id_plant=DAPO3.
- “Tall Prairie Clover (Dalea Polygonoides).” Illinois Wildflowers. Accessed August 23, 2021. http://www.illinoiswildflowers.info/prairie/plantx/tall_pcx.htm.
