Purple prairie clover

Dalea purpurea

Habitat:

Spotted growing on rocky ground on Belton Lake spillway.

Notes:

This plant is often found growing on severely eroded land or depleted soils, including rocky limestone and caliche. It is frequently used in revegetation efforts on reclaimed land. Native Americans used the plant in several ways. The leaves are edible, good for teas and medicines. The roots are palatable when chewed.