White Prairie Clover

Dalea candida oligophylla

Physical Characteristics

Dalea candida oligophylla is a PERENNIAL growing to 0.7 m (2ft 4in). It is in flower from July to August. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs). It can fix Nitrogen. Suitable for: light (sandy) and medium (loamy) soils and prefers well-drained soil. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils. It cannot grow in the shade. It prefers dry or moist soil and can tolerate drought.

Distribution

Central N. America - southwards from Canada.

Habitats

Cultivated Beds;

Edible Uses

Edible Parts: Leaves Root Edible Uses: Tea Root - raw or chewed for its pleasant sweet flavour[46, 105, 161]. The root can be dried, ground into a powder and stored for later use[257]. Leaves - cooked[61]. The peeled stems have been used as a food[257]. A tea-like beverage is made from the dried leaves[105].

Medicinal Uses

Emetic Poultice The plant is a strong emetic[216]. A poultice of the plant has been used to treat wounds[257].

Known Hazards

None known