White Prairie Clover
Dalea candida
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Pl. 2DE7 — Dalea candida
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IOverview
Overview
White Prairie Clover, scientifically known as Dalea candida, is a perennial forb or herb that thrives in full sun and various soil types, including light (sandy) and medium textures. Native to regions like Alabama, Alberta, Arizona, Arkansas, Colorado, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, and parts of Mexico, this plant can be found across a wide range from the central United States to Canada and into northern Mexico. It is known for its edible root, making it a valuable resource in certain culinary traditions. One distinctive feature of White Prairie Clover is its ability to grow up to 0.7 meters tall, forming subshrub-like structures that add diversity to native landscapes. Its adaptability to dry to moist conditions makes it a resilient choice for gardeners and conservationists alike.
Quick answers
What is White Prairie Clover?
White Prairie Clover, scientifically known as Dalea candida, is a perennial forb or herb that thrives in full sun and various soil types, including light (sandy) and medium textures.
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
VCultivation
Cultivation
White Prairie Clover thrives in full sun and prefers well-draining soil that is light (sandy) or medium. It can tolerate both dry and moist conditions but generally performs best with consistent moisture. This perennial grows up to 0.7 meters tall and is a subshrub or herb, making it an attractive addition to gardens. Hardy in temperate regions, it is native to the central United States and parts of Canada. For propagation, you can use root cuttings or seeds. The edible roots are a valuable part of this plant.
Light
Full sun
Water
Dry, Moist
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium
Life cycle
Perennial
Habit
Subshrub, Forb/herb
Mature size
0.7 m tall
For first-time growers
How to grow White Prairie Clover for the first time
8steps
Start with White Prairie Clover as a simple, low-maintenance perennial for your garden.
- 1
What you'll need
Seeds or young plants, a trowel, and a watering can.
- 2
Best time to plant
Plant in spring after the last frost or in fall before the first freeze.
- 3
Soil and container prep
Choose a well-draining soil with a pH between 6.0 and 7.5, and prepare by loosening the top layer.
- 4
Sowing or transplanting
Direct sow seeds in the ground or start young plants indoors about 4 weeks before planting outside.
- 5
First two weeks
Water regularly to keep soil moist but not waterlogged, and protect from extreme heat or cold.
- 6
Ongoing care
Provide full sun exposure and minimal watering once established. Prune lightly in spring to encourage new growth.
- 7
Harvest or pruning
Prune dead or damaged branches as needed, and cut back the plant after flowering to maintain shape.
- 8
Common mistakes
Overwatering, planting in heavy soil, and not providing enough sunlight are common issues.
VIEdible & utility
Edible & utility
Edible parts:Root
Edible uses: Tea
Other uses:Nitrogen fixer
Contextrange · companions · related
VIIDistribution
30 native · 0 introduced
Distribution
30 native · 0 introducedDistribution across0 continents· 30 native
Broader regions
native:Alabama, Alberta, Arizona, Arkansas, Colorado, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Manitoba, Mexico Northwest, Minnesota, Mississippi, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, New Mexico, North Dakota, Oklahoma, Ontario, South Dakota, Tennessee, Texas, Utah, Wisconsin, Wyoming, Saskatchewan, Mexico Northeast
IXSpecimen gallery
1 image
Specimen gallery
1 imageXI
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Companion planting
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