Plants are listed by common name

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Purple prairie clover

(Dalea purpurea)

The presence of purple prairie clover is one indicator of a high quality prairie. It is highly susceptible to overgrazing and other disturbances, and is one of the first plants to disappear when the condition of a prairie starts to degrade.

Unlike blazing star, which starts to bloom at the top of its spike, purple prairie clover starts at the bottom. It is easily visible along the wildflower trail in mid-July.

Both purple and white prairie clovers are available through native plant sales or mail order outlets.