Black Dalea

Plant Type: shrub
Plant Height: 2-3 feet
Spread: 3-4 feet
Flower Color: purple to violet
Sun Exposure: Full Sun

Description:

Black Dalea, scientifically known as Dalea frutescens, is a small, dense, and rounded shrub native to Texas and Mexico. It is highly prized in xeriscaping and native plant gardens for its drought tolerance, vibrant flowers, and ability to attract pollinators. This plant is also known as Black Prairie Clover and belongs to the legume family, making it beneficial for soil health by fixing nitrogen.

Growing to about 2 to 3 feet tall and spreading 3 to 4 feet wide, Black Dalea forms a compact mound of fine-textured, green foliage. The leaves are small and pinnately compound, adding a delicate texture to the landscape. From late summer to fall, the shrub produces an abundance of small, purple to violet flowers that are highly attractive to bees, butterflies, and other pollinators. These blooms not only add a splash of color to the garden but also support local biodiversity.

Adapted to full sun, Dalea frutescens thrives in well-draining soil and is extremely drought-tolerant once established, making it an excellent choice for water-wise landscaping, rock gardens, and native plantings. It prefers minimal supplemental watering and can thrive with natural rainfall in suitable climates.

In landscaping, Black Dalea is often used as a ground cover, in mixed borders, or as part of a pollinator garden. Its compact size and attractive flowering make it suitable for small gardens and container plantings as well. Additionally, its resilience to drought and poor soil conditions makes it a valuable addition to challenging garden sites.

Overall, Black Dalea is a versatile and attractive shrub, ideal for gardeners looking to add color, texture, and ecological value to their outdoor spaces. Its ease of care, drought tolerance, and vibrant blooms make it a favored choice for a variety of landscaping projects focused on sustainability and native plant use.