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Black Dalea

Dalea frutescens

In stock

5 gallon

Plant Care

Native region:

Chihuahuan Desert

Water needs:

Low; Moderate

Exposure:

Mature size:

Growth rate:

Full Sun

4'x5'

Moderate

Flower color:

Flower season:

Pruning:

Purple

Fall; Winter; Spring

May cut back in late winter or early spring if the plant becomes leggy or woody.

Wildlife

Monarchs:

Nectar pollinators:

Yes

Nighttime pollinators:

Rabbit resistant:

Black Dalea is a must-have for desert landscapes. This fast-growing, mounding shrub becomes a showstopper in fall and spring when it's covered in masses of vibrant purple flowers. The intense bloom provides a striking contrast against the backdrop of many yellow-flowering desert plants, making it an eye-catching addition to any garden.

Black Dalea forms a rounded mound with fine-textured, gray-green, ferny foliage, which stays evergreen in the low desert. Its delicate leaves pair beautifully with other desert plants like prickly pear cacti and ornamental grasses, offering a soft texture that contrasts well with more structured, bold plants.

Plant Black Dalea in full sun and well-drained soil. It’s crucial to avoid overwatering or fertilizing, as this can lead to legginess, weak growth, and reduced flowering. This drought-resistant shrub thrives on neglect once established and requires minimal to no maintenance, making it an excellent choice for low-water, desert gardens.

In addition to its visual appeal, Black Dalea is a magnet for pollinators. The abundant blooms attract bees, butterflies, and other beneficial insects, while serving as a host plant for the Dogface butterfly.

Though typically resistant to browsing, rabbits may occasionally nibble on its foliage. Use this versatile shrub for mass plantings, as a colorful border, or as a feature in planned desert landscapes. Its vibrant flowers and fine foliage texture add both color and structure to any dry garden, making it a valuable choice for those looking to create a vibrant, pollinator-friendly habitat.

Growing Plants in the Desert — Important Information

The information presented here is, to the best of my knowledge, accurate and based on my research from reliable sources, observations I have made of plants growing in my, and other gardens I have visited, and observations of the plants in their native habitats. I would appreciate your feedback and experience to help me educate others!

Cacti: In my experience, cacti are much happier in the filtered shade here in the low desert of the Coachella Valley. Colors are more vibrant and they bloom more profusely, especially the non-native varieties. If you pay attention to how our native barrel and beavertail opuntia grow in the wild, it is frequently tucked in the rocks under creosote or another shrub.

Light Requirements: I have found that in our desert (Sonoran/Colorado) “full sun” plants can take and appreciate the late afternoon filtered sun, especially in the hot summer months.