Owl's Clover

Orthocarpus Purpurascens

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Overview

Owl's Clover (Orthocarpus purpurascens) is a striking annual, noted for its vibrant purple-pink inflorescences that resemble owls, hence the name. It thrives in full sun to partial shade and well-drained soils, reaching up to 12 inches in height. Ideal for wildflower meadows or as a border accent, this drought-tolerant plant attracts pollinators while adding a splash of color to the landscape from spring to early summer.

Sun FullWater LowZones 3–10Climate Temperate

Owl's Clover (Orthocarpus Purpurascens) — Owl's Clover (Orthocarpus purpurascens) is a striking annual

Owl's Clover (Orthocarpus Purpurascens) — noted for its vibrant purple-pink inflorescences that resemble owls

Owl's Clover (Orthocarpus Purpurascens) — Ideal for wildflower meadows or as a border accent

Owl's Clover (Orthocarpus Purpurascens) — It thrives in full sun to partial shade and well-drained soils, reaching up to 12 inches in height

Owl's Clover (Orthocarpus Purpurascens) — scientifically known as Orthocarpus purpurascens

Owl's Clover (Orthocarpus Purpurascens) — which are intricately marked and resemble the shape of a small owl's face

Owl's Clover (Orthocarpus Purpurascens) — Owl's Clover reaches a modest height of 8 to 20 inches

Culture

Sun: Full
Water: Low
USDA zones: 3–10

Shape & size

Classification

Family: Scrophulariaceae
Climate: Temperate

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Photos (87)

Owl's Clover (Orthocarpus Purpurascens) — Owl's Clover (Orthocarpus purpurascens) is a striking annual

Owl's Clover (Orthocarpus Purpurascens) — noted for its vibrant purple-pink inflorescences that resemble owls

Owl's Clover (Orthocarpus Purpurascens) — Ideal for wildflower meadows or as a border accent

Owl's Clover (Orthocarpus Purpurascens) — It thrives in full sun to partial shade and well-drained soils, reaching up to 12 inches in height

Owl's Clover (Orthocarpus Purpurascens) — scientifically known as Orthocarpus purpurascens

Owl's Clover (Orthocarpus Purpurascens) — which are intricately marked and resemble the shape of a small owl's face

Owl's Clover (Orthocarpus Purpurascens) — Owl's Clover reaches a modest height of 8 to 20 inches

Owl's Clover (Orthocarpus Purpurascens) — with a spread of approximately 6 to 12 inches

Owl's Clover (Orthocarpus Purpurascens) — The plant is characterized by dense spikes of vibrant purple-pink flowers

Owl's Clover (Orthocarpus Purpurascens) — is a fascinating addition to any garden seeking a touch of unique color and texture

Owl's Clover (Orthocarpus Purpurascens) — providing a sustained display of color.<br><br>Owl's Clover is a hemiparasitic plant

Owl's Clover (Orthocarpus Purpurascens) — thus giving this plant its common name

Owl's Clover (Orthocarpus Purpurascens) — The flowers emerge in late spring and last through early summer

Owl's Clover (Orthocarpus Purpurascens) — which means that while it does photosynthesize

Owl's Clover (Orthocarpus Purpurascens) — it also derives some of its nutrients from the roots of neighboring plants; therefore

Owl's Clover (Orthocarpus Purpurascens) — requiring minimal watering once established

Owl's Clover (Orthocarpus Purpurascens) — thus conserving water and aligning with xeriscaping principles

Owl's Clover (Orthocarpus Purpurascens) — and to strengthen the garden's ecological function

Owl's Clover (Orthocarpus Purpurascens) — consider its placement carefully

Owl's Clover (Orthocarpus Purpurascens) — Owl's Clover is a low-maintenance choice

Owl's Clover (Orthocarpus Purpurascens) — noted for its vibrant purple-pink inflorescences that resemble owls; thus giving this plant its common name

Owl's Clover (Orthocarpus Purpurascens) — Owl's Clover (Orthocarpus purpurascens) is a striking annual; ideal for wildflower meadows or as a border accent

Owl's Clover (Orthocarpus Purpurascens) — annual for full

Owl's Clover (Orthocarpus Purpurascens) — pink and purple flowers in the garden

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