Purple Prairie Clover
Dalea purpurea
Perennial
Bloom
July — September
Color
Purple
Height
12—18 inches
Spread
12 inches
Sun
Full sun (6+ hours)
Water
Very low — drought tolerant
A Colorado native prairie perennial delivering dense purple cylindrical flower spikes from mid-summer through fall. One of the most drought-tolerant native perennials, it thrives in poor, well-draining soils and requires minimal supplemental water. The flowers attract butterflies and native bees. The plant's taproot accesses deep soil moisture, making it virtually maintenance-free.
Growing conditions
- Soil: Well-draining, sandy/loamy
- Sun: Full sun (6+ hours)
- Water: Very low — drought tolerant
- Drought tolerance: Excellent
- Hardiness: Colorado native / adapted · USDA Zones 4–7
Wildlife & ecology
- Pollinator value: High — butterflies, bees
- Landscape use: Xeriscape gardens, vertical accent, prairie plantings, late-season color.
Want Purple Prairie Clover in your yard?
Xeris designs and installs native plant xeriscapes across Denver and the Front Range. We'll walk your site, assess soil and sun, and build a plan that thrives.
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