Purple Prairie Clover is a perennial member of the pea family (Fabaceae) - it fixes nitrogen through root nodules, improving the soil around it. Purple Prairie Clover does best in full sun and lean, well-drained soils. Its deep taproot makes it highly drought tolerant and allows it to persist where shallower-rooted neighbors struggle; it is also deer resistant. Plant in large groups for the most attractive appearance. Foliage is ornamental even after blooms are gone. Purple Prairie Clover has a similar appearance to Dalea compacta, but its native range is further west. It is naturally found in dry plains, prairies, hillsides, open woodlands, sandhills, and roadsides. AT A GLANCE Texas native Yes Water use Low Sun exposure Full sun Bloom color Purple Bloom time Summer Mature height 1-2 ft Attracts Bees, butterflies Host plant Southern Dogface Sulphur and Reakirt's Blue butterflies Deer resistant Yes Notes Native bee and bumble bee friendly. Nitrogen fixer. DISTRIBUTION MAPS USDA MAP BONAP MAP Present in state Present in county and native Native to North America, but adventive & escaped in state Not present in state Present and rare, native in county Previously present, now extinct Questionable presence (cross-hatched, regardless of color)