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Description
Trifolium Montanum, commonly known as mountain clover or mountain trefoil, is a flowering plant belonging to the Fabaceae family. This species is native to the western regions of North America, including California, Oregon, and Idaho. It is a perennial herb that grows up to 30 cm tall and spreads up to 50 cm wide.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Fabales |
| Family | Fabaceae |
| Genus | Trifolium |
Appearance
Trifolium Montanum has trifoliate leaves that are green and hairy. The leaflets are ovate to lanceolate in shape, measuring 1-3 cm long and 0.5-1.5 cm wide. The flowers are pink or purple in color, forming a dense, round cluster at the top of the stem. Each flower measures 0.5-1 cm long and has a distinctive clover-like shape. The fruits are small, dry pods that contain one or two seeds.
Care Guide
Trifolium Montanum is a relatively low-maintenance plant that requires moderate watering and occasional fertilization. It prefers well-draining soil and full to partial sunlight. This species is hardy in USDA zones 4-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Trifolium Montanum is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, it may be susceptible to root rot if grown in poorly-draining soil. Aphids and mites may also occasionally infest this plant.
Habitat
Trifolium Montanum is commonly found in meadows, open woods, and rocky slopes at elevations between 500-3000 meters. It is often used as a forage plant for grazing animals due to its high protein content.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Trifolium Montanum be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Trifolium Montanum can be grown in containers as long as they are deep enough to accommodate the plant’s root system.
Q: Is Trifolium Montanum an invasive species?
A: No, Trifolium Montanum is not considered an invasive species and is not known to spread aggressively in natural habitats.
Q: What is the blooming period of Trifolium Montanum?
A: Trifolium Montanum typically blooms from May to August.
Q: Can Trifolium Montanum tolerate drought?
A: Trifolium Montanum can tolerate mild drought conditions but prefers moderate watering.
Related Plants
- Trifolium pratense (Red Clover)
- Trifolium repens (White Clover)
- Trifolium hybridum (Alsike Clover)
References
- USDA Plants Database: Trifolium Montanum
- Calscape: Trifolium Montanum
- Wildflower.org: Trifolium Montanum
