Trifolium dubium aka Lesser Trefoil

Taxonomy

Trifolium dubium, also known as the lesser trefoil, suckling clover, little hop clover, or lesser hop trefoil, is a flowering plant in the pea and clover family Fabaceae. This species is generally accepted as the primary plant to represent the traditional Irish shamrock. It is an annual plant that grows up to 0.5 m (1ft 8in) and is not frost tender. It blooms from May to October, with seeds ripening from July to October. Trifolium dubium is a hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by bees. The plant is self-fertile and can fix nitrogen, making it suitable for attracting wildlife. It prefers moist, well-drained soil and can grow in nutritionally poor soil with a pH range from acidic to alkaline. However, it cannot grow in the shade. While Trifolium dubium is native to Europe, it can be found in many parts of the world as an introduced species. It is believed to be an allotetraploid with 2n=32 that arose from the crossing of Trifolium campestre and T. micranthum. Shamrock, a relatively rare houseplant that is easy to grow, is often mistaken for Trifolium dubium. Shamrock needs regular watering to thrive and does best in long-lasting, direct light, less than 1 foot from a window.

Common names

Lesser Trefoil, Lesser Hop Trefoil, Suckling Clover

How to care for Lesser Trefoil

Difficulty

With a bit of knowledge and dedication, you can successfully care for Lesser Trefoil, making it a rewarding choice for those seeking a moderate challenge.

Water

Lesser Trefoil should be watered regularly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.

Soil

Lesser Trefoil loves a well-draining soil. Perlite and vermiculite help with drainage, while coco coir adds organic matter, so a good potting soil mix will have all three. You can improve store-bought soil by adding some perlite to it.

Lighting

Lesser Trefoil thrives in bright and direct sunlight. To ensure your plant receives enough light to survive, place it less than one foot from a window. The current weather in your area may affect the placement in your home. For example, if you live in a region that has longer and more intense periods of sunlight, then you may want to place the plant farther away from the window to avoid direct sunlight and reduce the risk of sunburn. Alternatively, if you live in a region with relatively milder temperatures and less intense sunlight, then you may be able to place the plant closer to the window for increased exposure. Ultimately, the current weather in your area should be taken into consideration when determining the best placement for your Suckling Clover.

Toxicity

No verified data on the toxicity of this plant exists within Ploi's records. Should you, someone in your family, or your pet ingest plant material with an unknown toxicity level, it is recommended to seek medical advice.

Fertilizer

The Lesser Trefoil is known for its slow growth and doesn't require fertilizing beyond its potting soil. Replacing the soil in its pot once a year should offer it sufficient nutrition. It's essential to remember that plants get their energy from the sun, not from fertilizers.

Region of origin

Lesser Trefoil’s native range is Europe, including Britain, from Sweden south and east to Spain and the Caucasus.


More info:
Wikipedia