Native short-lived perennial or occasionally biennial legume with purple-blue to white flowers, blooming March to August. Prefers well-drained, sandy or gravelly soils on dunes and road cuts, as well as marshes, streams and wet meadows; up to 8,000 ft. elevation. Use for restoration and as a fast growing pioneer after disturbance on infertile soils. Provides pollen and nectar for native bees, butterflies and other beneficial insects.