Amorpha canescens

A true prairie shrub, but it also occurs in savannas. Can be cut (or burned) to the ground every few years. Roots penetrate up to 15+ feet in the soil, hence it is drought resistant. The older common name, Prairie Shoestring, refers to the popping noise that occurred when its roots ruptured during the original plowing of our Tallgrass Prairies. The purple flowers with red stamens and yellow anthers are quite beautiful. The foliage is usually covered in fine hairs, particularly when growing in full sun, giving it a "lead" appearance.