Silky Prairie-clover
Dalea villosa
Last reviewed: June 2026
Light
full sun
Water
low
Size
8"–24" H × 8"–18" W
Bloom
Jun, Jul, Aug
Native to
AR, CO, IA, KS and 13 more states
Pollinators
bees
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Silky prairie-clover is a compact native perennial with silvery-green foliage and small, cylindrical purple flower spikes that appear in summer. This drought-tolerant plant forms neat, low mounds and requires minimal care once established. The flowers attract numerous beneficial insects throughout the blooming season.
In an HOA neighborhood
Silky 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.
- Goes completely dormant in winter leaving bare stems
Wildlife value
This plant is particularly valuable for native bees, which rely on its protein-rich pollen. The extended bloom period provides consistent nectar from June through August.
Common questions
- How much sun does Silky Prairie-clover need?
- Silky Prairie-clover grows best in full sun conditions.
- When does Silky Prairie-clover bloom?
- Silky Prairie-clover blooms in June, July, and August.
- Where is Silky Prairie-clover native?
- Silky Prairie-clover (Dalea villosa) is native to AR, CO, IA, KS and 13 more states, per the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists.
- What pollinators does Silky Prairie-clover attract?
- Silky Prairie-clover draws bees.
- Is Silky Prairie-clover HOA-friendly?
- Silky Prairie-clover is generally an HOA-friendly choice in the right placement, with low maintenance.
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.
Ready to grow Silky Prairie-clover? Add it to your garden in Pollinator Patch to track it and get season-by-season care guidance.
Not sure where to start? Take the 2-minute yard quiz