Compact Prairie Clover

Compact Prairie Clover

© Don Verser

Dalea compacta
Family: Fabaceae (Legume Family)

Compact Prairie Clover (Dalea compacta) is a drought-tolerant, nitrogen-fixing native perennial known for its dense spikes of pink to lavender flowers and fine-textured foliage. This clover is native to prairies and dry, open habitats across the south-central United States, including parts of Texas. Its compact form and attractive blooms make it ideal for native plant gardens, wildflower meadows, and restoration projects.

• Scientific Name: Dalea compacta
• Common Names: Compact Prairie Clover
• Family: Fabaceae (Legume Family)
• Growth Habit: Upright, clump-forming perennial
• Height: 12 to 18 inches
• Leaves: Pinnately compound, with small, narrow leaflets; soft texture
• Flowers: Dense, rounded spikes of purple-pink flowers with yellow stamens
• Bloom Time: Summer
• Wildlife Benefits: Attracts bees and other pollinators; fixes nitrogen in soil

Habitat & Range in Southeast Texas

Compact Prairie Clover is found in:

• Dry Prairies & Grasslands: Prefers open, sunny areas with minimal competition
• Sandy or Rocky Soils: Tolerates nutrient-poor conditions
• Restored Native Meadows: A valuable component of prairie restoration efforts

This species is well-suited to dry, well-drained soils and performs well in harsh, sunny environments.

Ecological Importance

• Pollinator Support: Provides nectar and pollen for native bees
• Soil Health: As a legume, it enriches the soil by fixing nitrogen
• Low Maintenance: Thrives in low-water landscapes and requires little care

Landscaping & Gardening Uses

Compact Prairie Clover is perfect for sustainable landscapes and native plantings:

• Wildflower Meadows: Adds texture and color to mixed prairie gardens
• Pollinator Gardens: Essential nectar source for bees and beneficial insects
• Erosion Control: Deep root system helps stabilize soil

Planting & Care

• Sunlight: Full sun
• Soil: Well-drained; tolerates sandy, rocky, or poor soils
• Water Needs: Low; drought-tolerant once established
• Maintenance: Minimal; cut back in late winter if desired
• Companion Plants: Mixes well with Little Bluestem (Schizachyrium scoparium), Texas Bluebonnet (Lupinus texensis), and Indian Blanket (Gaillardia pulchella)

Fun Facts

• Compact Prairie Clover is a member of the pea family and produces pods after flowering.
• Its deep roots make it especially suited for dry and degraded landscapes.
• The flowers form in tight, globe-like heads that stand out in prairie settings.

Conservation & Native Plant Advocacy

Incorporating Compact Prairie Clover into your landscape helps conserve native biodiversity and supports healthy soils. Its role as a nitrogen-fixer makes it a valuable ally in restoration and sustainable gardening practices.

Where to Find It