Croton monanthogynus
Prairie Tea (Doveweed) is a grey-green native annual with fragrant, downy leaves that thrives in sun-baked, rocky pastures. Highly resilient to severe summer drought, its leaves contain aromatic oils that deter cattle. Crucially, it serves as the indispensable primary larval host plant for the striking Goatweed Leafwing butterfly (Anaea andria), while its seeds feed mourning doves.
Height: 1-3 ft.
Spread: 2-5 ft.
Foliage: Deciduous
Growth Rate: Moderate
Water Need: Low
Sun Need: Part Sun, Full Sun
Substrate / Soil: Limestone, Loam, Gravelly
Bloom Season: May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep, Oct
This species serves as an essential host plant for caterpillar larvae of: Goatweed Leafwing.
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