Family: Fabaceae
Author: Torr.
Bibliography: Ann. Lyceum Nat. Hist. New York 2: 177 (1827)
Year: 1827
Status: accepted
Rank: species
Genus: Dalea
Vegetable: False
Observations: WC. & C. U.S.A. to N. Mexico
Description
Feather-plume, scientifically known as Dalea formosa, is a member of the Fabaceae family. It was first described in 1827 by the naturalist Torr. This perennial shrub is predominantly found in the arid regions stretching across the West-Central and Central United States all the way to Northern Mexico.
Dalea formosa is cherished for its delicate, feather-like foliage, which, combined with its vibrant blooms, gives it its common name—Feather-plume. The plant typically flourishes in open, sunny locations with well-drained soils, making it well-suited for desert landscapes and xeriscaping designs that aim to conserve water. Its adaptability to harsh conditions highlights its resilience and ecological importance in its native habitats.
The flowers of Feather-plume are particularly striking, often blooming in shades of purple and pink, creating a stunning visual contrast against the silvery-green foliage. These blooms provide an essential source of nectar for various pollinators, including bees and butterflies, thereby supporting local ecosystems.
Feather-plume’s foliage and flowers are not only visually appealing but also play a vital role in the environment. The plant aids in soil stabilization, preventing erosion in its natural scrubland and desert settings. Moreover, as a member of the Fabaceae family, Dalea formosa contributes to the nitrogen fixation process, enriching the soil with essential nutrients and supporting the growth of surrounding plant life.
In addition to its ecological benefits, Feather-plume is also valued in horticulture for its low maintenance requirements and drought tolerance. Gardeners and landscape designers often incorporate it into sustainable gardening practices, taking advantage of its hardiness and beauty to create aesthetically pleasing and environmentally friendly spaces.
Overall, Dalea formosa, or Feather-plume, stands out as a remarkable plant both in the wild and in cultivated settings, with its unique appearance and significant environmental contributions making it a valuable species worth recognizing and preserving.
Common Names
Eng: feather-plume, featherplume, feather-plume dalea
En: Feather-plume, Featherplume, FEATHER DALEA, Feathery dalea, Feather-plume Dalea
Synonyms
- Parosela formosa ((Torr.) Vail)
Distribution
- Arizona (native)
- Colorado (native)
- Mexico Northeast (native)
- Mexico Northwest (native)
- New Mexico (native)
- Oklahoma (native)
- Texas (native)
Additional Images
Leaf
Taken Jun 18, 2022 by Eylisia (cc-by-sa)
Taken Sep 11, 2019 by romack terrell (cc-by-sa)
Flower
Taken May 17, 2004 by EOL − Robert Sivinski (cc-by-nc)
Taken Apr 22, 2015 by EOL − Richard Spellenberg (cc-by-nc-sa)
Taken Apr 22, 2015 by EOL − Richard Spellenberg (cc-by-nc-sa)
Taken Jul 10, 2015 by EOL − Wynn Anderson (cc-by-nc-sa)
Taken May 10, 2019 by lopez karla (cc-by-sa)
Habit
Taken Apr 8, 2016 by EOL − Jennifer Holguin (cc-by-nc)
Taken Dec 17, 2015 by EOL − Sam Kieschnick (cc-by-nc)
Taken Dec 16, 2015 by EOL − Sam Kieschnick (cc-by-nc)
Taken Dec 16, 2015 by EOL − Sam Kieschnick (cc-by-nc)
Taken Jan 14, 2016 by EOL − ellen hildebrandt (cc-by-nc)
Bark
Taken Mar 13, 2016 by EOL − Nathan Taylor (cc-by-nc)
Sources
- WFO (No URL)
- IPNI (No URL)
- GBIF (https://www.gbif.org/species/5353250)
- POWO (http://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:490666-1)
- PlantNet (https://identify.plantnet.org/species/the-plant-list/Dalea formosa Torr.)
Specifications
Growth form>: Multiple Stem
Growth habit>: Subshrub, Shrub
Growth rate>: Slow
Growth
Ph maximum: 7.5
Ph minimum: 5.5
