Trifolium pratense aka Red Clover
Taxonomy
Trifolium pratense, commonly known as red clover, is a herbaceous perennial wildflower that belongs to the bean family Fabaceae. Native to Europe, Western Asia, and northwest Africa, this plant has been introduced and naturalized in various regions. Growing up to a height of 30-50cm, it features trifoliate leaves and clusters of pinkish-red flowers measuring 2-3cm across. Blooming from May to September, red clover is a valuable source of nectar, particularly for bees. Traditionally found in hay meadows, it has the ability to fix nitrogen in its roots. Due to its attractive pink flowers and appeal to bees, it is also cultivated as an ornamental in gardens, often in mini wildflower meadows or in gaps within herbaceous borders. While it is beneficial as a green manure for nitrogen fixation in the soil, it can be invasive in the United States and Europe. For optimal growth, Trifolium pratense thrives in moist but well-drained soil.
Common names
Red Clover, Purple Clover, Meadow HoneysuckleHow to care for Red Clover
Difficulty
If you're looking for a plant that offers a moderate level of challenge, Red Clover is a great choice to test your gardening skills.
Water
Red Clover should be watered regularly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.
Soil
Red Clover 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
Red Clover requires abundant, bright, and direct light to thrive. The best placement for this plant is within one foot of a window to ensure it receives enough light. If you live in an area with more extreme weather, such as hot summers or cold winters, you may need to adjust the placement of the plant accordingly. During hot summer months, it is important to place the plant away from full sun, as this can cause the leaves to yellow or burn. During cold winter months, it is best to move the plant closer to the window to take advantage of the extra light that can help it survive. By keeping an eye on the current weather in your area, you can make sure your Purple Clover is always in the right place to thrive.
Dormancy
During the cold period, it is common for Red Clover to go dormant, resulting in a slowdown of growth. To accommodate this, waterings should be spaced out more.
Toxicity
There is no verified data on the toxicity of this plant in the records of Ploi. If any person, including yourself, a family member, or a pet, consume plant material with an uncertain toxicity level, it is advisable to seek the advice of a healthcare expert.
Fertilizer
The Red Clover is characterized by its slow growth and doesn't need fertilization in addition to its potting soil. By renewing the soil in its pot once a year, it should have enough nutrition. Remember, plants get their energy from sunlight, not from any fertilizers.
Growth-pattern
New growth will sprout from the top of the Red Clover as it grows vertically.
Region of origin
Red Clover’s native range is Europe, including Britain, from Norway south and east to Spain and W. Asia.
More info:
Wikipedia
More Species in Trifolium Genus
Trifolium fucatum Puff Clover
Trifolium striatum Striate Clover
Trifolium aureum Large Hop Clover
Trifolium angustifolium Narrow Clover
Trifolium alpinum Alpine Clover
Trifolium bifidum Notch Leaf Clover
Trifolium repens White Clover
Trifolium purpureum Purple Clover
Trifolium obtusiflorum Clammy Clover
