Purple Prairie-clover
Dalea purpurea
Last reviewed: June 2026
Light
full sun
Water
low
Size
12"–36" H × 12"–24" W
Bloom
Jun, Jul, Aug
Native to
AL, AZ, CO, GA and 18 more states
Pollinators
bees, butterflies, beetles
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Purple prairie-clover is a compact native wildflower with distinctive cylindrical purple flower heads that bloom from June through August. This drought-tolerant perennial forms neat clumps with fine-textured foliage and reaches 1-3 feet tall. It requires minimal care once established and thrives in full sun with little watering.
In an HOA neighborhood
Purple Prairie-clover is an HOA-friendly choice. Maintenance level: low. Tidiness: 4 out of 5.
Works well in: front yard, foundation, street edge, mid zone.
- Dies back completely in winter
Wildlife value
The unique cylindrical flowers are excellent for native bees, butterflies, and beetles throughout the summer months. This plant is particularly valuable for supporting specialist prairie pollinators.
Native range data from the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists. Pollinator and host plant associations compiled from GBIF, iNaturalist, and published ecological literature.
Does Purple Prairie-clover fit your yard? Open it in Pollinator Patch to check it against your sun, soil, and HOA-conscious filters.