Contents
Description
Trifolium Eriocephalum, commonly known as the woolly-headed clover or hare’s-foot clover, is a species of clover native to Europe and Asia. It belongs to the Fabaceae family and is an herbaceous perennial plant. The plant has a hairy stem and leaves, and the flowers are pinkish-purple in color. It grows up to a height of 20-30 cm and produces seeds that are dispersed by the wind.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Fabales |
| Family | Fabaceae |
| Genus | Trifolium |
Appearance
The woolly-headed clover has a unique appearance due to its hairy stem and leaves. The leaves are trifoliate and have a white stripe in the center. The flowers are arranged in clusters and are pinkish-purple in color. The plant grows up to a height of 20-30 cm and has a spread of 10-15 cm. The seeds are small and are dispersed by the wind.
Care Guide
The woolly-headed clover is a hardy plant and requires minimal care. Here are some guidelines for its care:
- Water: Water the plant regularly but do not overwater it. The soil should be moist but not waterlogged.
- Fertilization: Fertilize the plant with a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season.
- Soil: The plant prefers well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter.
- Sunlight: The woolly-headed clover prefers full sun but can tolerate partial shade.
- Hardiness Zones: The plant is hardy in USDA zones 4-8.
Common Pests & Diseases
The woolly-headed clover is susceptible to a few pests and diseases. Here are some common ones:
- Aphids: These small insects suck the sap from the plant and can cause stunted growth and yellowing of the leaves.
- Leaf spot: This fungal disease causes brown spots on the leaves and can lead to defoliation if left untreated.
- Root rot: This disease is caused by a fungus that attacks the roots of the plant and can lead to wilting and death.
Habitat
The woolly-headed clover is native to Europe and Asia and can be found in meadows, fields, and pastures. It prefers well-drained soil and full sun but can tolerate partial shade. The plant is hardy in USDA zones 4-8 and can grow up to a height of 20-30 cm.
Question and Answer
Q: Is the woolly-headed clover a perennial or an annual plant?
A: The woolly-headed clover is a perennial plant.
Q: What is the ideal soil pH for the woolly-headed clover?
A: The woolly-headed clover prefers a soil pH of 6.0-7.5.
Q: Is the woolly-headed clover a nitrogen-fixing plant?
A: Yes, the woolly-headed clover is a nitrogen-fixing plant.
Q: Can the woolly-headed clover be grown in containers?
A: Yes, the woolly-headed clover can be grown in containers as long as it has enough space to grow and the soil is well-drained.
Related Plants
- Trifolium pratense (red clover)
- Trifolium repens (white clover)
- Trifolium hybridum (alsike clover)
References
- “Trifolium Eriocephalum.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=285538.
- “Trifolium Eriocephalum.” Plants of the World Online, Kew Science, powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:523515-1.
- Bonar, Ann. “Woolly-headed Clover.” Colorado State University Extension, 2019, extension.colostate.edu/topic-areas/yard-garden/woolly-headed-clover-7-241/.
