This wildlife powerhouse is loved by bees, birds, mammals, and soils alike. Members of the Bean family fix nitrogen in the soil, so round-headed bush clover is a great companion for other plants in a wide range of well-drained soils, especially poor or rocky. Once established, the clover is drought tolerant. The erect, 2- to 5-foot stems are topped by clusters of white flowers with a touch of purple from late summer to fall. The stems and soft, green leaves are covered in fine, white hairs.
Plant Characteristics:
Grows 2-5' tall and 1-2' wide.
Prefers full or part sun.
Adapts to a wide range of well-drained, moist to dry soils. Tolerates drought.
Round, white/purple flowers bloom August-October.
Wildlife Value:
Host plant for eastern-tailed blue (Everes comyntas) larvae, which has many broods from February-November. The adult butterflies feed on low-lying, open or short-tubed flowers such as white sweet clover, shepherd's needle, wild strawberry, winter cress, cinquefoils, and asters. Bees visit for nectar. Birds eat the seeds and mammals browse the nutritious plant. Also provides dense cover for birds and small mammals.
Resources:
North Carolina Extension
