Trifolium pratense, the red clover, is a herbaceous species of flowering plant in the bean family Fabaceae, native to Europe, Western Asia and northwest Africa, but planted and naturalised in many other regions.
Family:
Fabaceae (Pea)
Height:
6 to 24 inches
Leaves:
Alternately attached; 3 oval leaflets with white, blotchy, V-shaped markings
Flower:
Small, pink flowers in round dense clusters at the top of the stem
Bloom time:
Late May-September
Habitat:
Fields, roadsides, lawns
Wildlife Benefits:
Flowers are attractive to many species of bees, butterflies, and moths. Foliage and seeds are a food source for a variety of caterpillars and other insects, as well as many species of birds and small mammals.
Can I plant this in my garden?
No, red clover is considered weedy, and often finds its way into lawns and gardens on its own. While removal is often unnecessary, as this species is unlikely to outcompete native species and is valuable to wildlife, management options include hand pulling or cutting of flowers with a string trimmer.
References:
https://www.minnesotawildflowers.info/flower/red-clover
http://www.illinoiswildflowers.info/weeds/plants/red_clover.htm
Family | Fabaceae |
---|---|
Habit | Forb |
Flower | pink, purple |
Origin | introduced |
Life cycle | biennial, perennial |
Bloom time | (5) May, (6) June, (7) July, (8) August, (9) September |
*sites | Gervais Mill Pond, Keller Golf Course, Lake Phalen, Snail Lake |