Black Dalea (Dalea frutescens)

Black Dalea

Dalea frutescens

Other Common Names: Black Prairie Clover, Shrubby Dalea

Quick Plant Info

• ☀️ Light: Full Sun
• 💧 Water: Low
• 🌿 Type: Shrub
• 📏 Mature Size: 2–3 ft tall × 2–3 ft wide

Description

A compact native shrub with fine-textured foliage and deep purple blooms that thrive in dry, sunny landscapes.

Black Dalea forms a dense, rounded shrub with delicate foliage and small, dark purple flowers. It provides a refined, textured look while supporting pollinators in low-water gardens.

🌼 Why it works

• Compact shrub ideal for smaller spaces
• Excellent drought tolerance
• Adds fine texture to plantings
• Low-maintenance once established

🐦 Wildlife value

A strong nectar source for bees and other pollinators during its bloom period.

As a native legume, it contributes to soil health and supports beneficial insect activity.

🌱 Where it thrives

Best in full sun with well-drained soil. It performs well in rocky, sandy, or limestone soils and is well-suited to xeriscape and native plantings.

• Xeriscape and low-water gardens
• Sunny beds and borders
• Naturalized plantings

Soil: Prefers well-drained soil and tolerates rocky or limestone conditions.

✂️ Growth & maintenance

Requires minimal maintenance. Light pruning can help maintain shape if desired.

💧 Water (establishment note)

Water regularly during establishment; once established, Black Dalea is highly drought tolerant and performs best in well-drained soils.

Pickup Information

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