Foxtail Prairie Clover

About Foxtail Prairie Clover

Foxtail Prairie Clover is a charming annual wildflower that adds a whimsical, soft texture to the landscape with its namesake fuzzy flower spikes. This fast-growing species typically reaches 1 to 2 feet in height, featuring multiple branching stems covered in fine, pinnate leaves. From July to September, it produces elongated, dense flower spikes that resemble a fox's tail, covered in tiny white to pale blue blossoms. While it is native across much of the central and western United States, it is often found in disturbed areas, sandy banks, and open woods, making it an excellent 'pioneer' species for new restoration projects. It provides a quick burst of nectar for bees and butterflies while its seeds offer sustenance for various bird species. Foxtail Prairie Clover is remarkably adaptable, thriving in full sun and a wide range of soil types from medium-wet to dry. Because it is an annual, it is easily established from seed and will often self-sow in open, sandy soils, ensuring its presence in the garden for years to come.