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Description
Dalea Villosa Var. Grisea, commonly known as prairie clover, is a perennial herb native to North America. It belongs to the Fabaceae family, which includes legumes such as beans and peas. This plant produces small, pink to purple flowers that bloom from June to September. The leaves are pinnately compound with three leaflets, and the stem is covered in fine hairs. Dalea Villosa Var. Grisea is a hardy plant that can tolerate drought and poor soil conditions.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Fabales |
| Family | Fabaceae |
| Genus | Dalea |
Appearance
Dalea Villosa Var. Grisea grows up to 2 feet tall and 1.5 feet wide. Its flowers are small, pink to purple, and grow in clusters at the top of the stem. The leaves are pinnately compound with three leaflets, and are about 1-2 inches long. The stem is covered in fine hairs, giving it a fuzzy appearance. The plant has a bushy growth habit, and can spread through rhizomes.
Care Guide
To care for Dalea Villosa Var. Grisea, give it well-draining soil and full sunlight. This plant is drought-tolerant and does not need much water, but it will benefit from occasional deep watering during periods of extended drought. Fertilize once a year with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer. Dalea Villosa Var. Grisea is hardy to USDA zones 4-8.
Common Pests & Diseases
Dalea Villosa Var. Grisea is generally pest-free, but it may be susceptible to aphids, spider mites, and whiteflies. These pests can be treated with insecticidal soap or neem oil. The plant may also be susceptible to root rot if it is overwatered or planted in poorly-draining soil.
Habitat
Dalea Villosa Var. Grisea is native to the central and western United States, and can be found in grasslands, prairies, and open woods. It prefers dry, well-draining soil and full sunlight.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Dalea Villosa Var. Grisea a good plant for beginners?
A: Yes, this plant is hardy and easy to care for, making it a good choice for beginners.
Q: Can Dalea Villosa Var. Grisea grow in containers?
A: While it prefers well-draining soil, Dalea Villosa Var. Grisea can be grown in containers as long as they are large enough to accommodate its root system.
Q: How often should I fertilize Dalea Villosa Var. Grisea?
A: Fertilize once a year with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer.
Q: What is the best time to plant Dalea Villosa Var. Grisea?
A: The best time to plant is in the spring, after the danger of frost has passed.
Related Plants
- Dalea Candida
- Dalea Purpurea
- Dalea Scoparia
References
- USDA Plants Database. (n.d.). Dalea villosa var. grisea (Hook. & Arn.) S.L. Welsh. Retrieved October 22, 2021, from https://plants.usda.gov/home/plantProfile?symbol=DAVIG2
- Missouri Botanical Garden. (n.d.). Dalea villosa var. grisea. Retrieved October 22, 2021, from https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=282708&isprofile=1&basic=dalea%20villosa
