Status:
valid
Authors:
Torr.
Source:
ildis
Year:
1827
Citation Micro:
Ann. Lyceum Nat. Hist. New York2: 177 (1827)
WFO Identifier:
wfo-0000169065
Common Names
- Showy Prairie Clover
- Showy False Indigo
- Showy Indigobush
Synonyms
- Parosela formosa (Torr.) Vail [valid]
Description
Dalea formosa (also called Formosa Prairie Clover, among many other common names) is a perennial herbaceous plant native to the United States. It has a slender stem and small, white and purple flowers that bloom in the summer. It typically grows in dry, sandy soils in prairies and open woodlands.
Uses & Benefits
Dalea formosa is used for making baskets, mats, and other crafts. It is also used as a soil stabilizer and for erosion control.
Flower, Seeds and Seedlings
The flower of Dalea formosa is a small, purplish-blue, pea-like flower that grows in clusters. The seed is a small, black, oval-shaped seed. The seedlings are small, green, and have two to three leaflets.
Cultivation and Propagation
Dalea formosa is a perennial shrub that grows best in full sun and well-drained soils. Propagation is best done by seed. Sow the seeds in a well-draining soil and keep the soil moist. Germination usually takes place within two weeks.
Where to Find Dalea formosa
Dalea formosa can be found in the southwestern United States, in Arizona, New Mexico, and Texas.
Dalea formosa FAQ
What is the scientific name of Dalea formosa?
Dalea formosa
What is the common name of Dalea formosa?
Beautiful prairie clover
What is the natural habitat of Dalea formosa?
Dry prairies, open woodlands, and roadsides
Species in the Dalea genus
Dalea aenigma,
Dalea foliolosa,
Dalea laniceps,
Dalea abietifolia,
Dalea albiflora,
Dalea aurea,
Dalea azurea,
Dalea bicolor,
Dalea brachystachya,
Dalea brandegei,
Dalea caeciliae,
Dalea capitata,
Dalea carthagenensis,
Dalea cliffortiana,
Dalea compacta,
Dalea crassifolia,
Dalea cuniculo-caudata,
Dalea cyanea,
Dalea cylindrica,
Dalea dispar,
Dalea dorycnoides,
Dalea elata,
Dalea elegans,
Dalea emarginata,
Dalea eriophylla,
Dalea erythrorhiza,
Dalea exilis,
Dalea exserta,
Dalea fieldii,
Dalea filiciformis,
Dalea filiformis,
Dalea formosa,
Dalea frutescens,
Dalea galbina,
Dalea grayi,
Dalea greggii,
Dalea hallii,
Dalea hegewischiana,
Dalea hemsleyana,
Dalea hintonii,
Dalea hospes,
Dalea humifusa,
Dalea insignis,
Dalea jamesii,
Dalea jamesonii,
Dalea kuntzei,
Dalea lachnostachys,
Dalea lanata,
Dalea lasiathera,
Dalea leucosericea,
Species in the Fabaceae family