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Description
Trifolium Repens, commonly known as the White Clover, is a perennial plant that belongs to the legume family. It is native to Europe and Asia but has been widely naturalized in many parts of the world. This plant is recognizable for its three-lobed leaves and white or pinkish flowers. It grows up to 20 cm tall and spreads rapidly through stolons, which are horizontal stems that grow along the soil surface.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Fabales |
| Family | Leguminosae |
| Genus | Trifolium |
Appearance
The White Clover has a distinctive appearance with its trifoliate leaves, which are usually 1-2 cm long and 1-2 cm broad. The leaves have a smooth texture, and the margins are serrated. The flowers are white or pinkish, and they grow in compact clusters at the end of long stalks. Each individual flower is about 1 cm long and has a sweet fragrance. The plant also produces small, round seed pods that are about 3-4 mm in diameter.
Care Guide
Trifolium Repens is a hardy plant that requires minimal care. It thrives in well-drained soils and prefers full sun to partial shade. It can tolerate a wide range of soil types, but it grows best in soils that are slightly acidic to neutral. Regular watering is essential for its growth, especially during dry periods. The plant does not require fertilization, but a light application of nitrogen-rich fertilizer can promote growth.
The White Clover is hardy in USDA Zones 3-10 and can survive in temperatures as low as -40°C. It can also tolerate drought conditions and is resistant to most pests and diseases.
Common Pests & Diseases
The White Clover is generally resistant to pests and diseases, but it can be susceptible to some fungal diseases, such as powdery mildew and rust. Aphids and clover mites can also infest the plant, causing damage to the leaves and flowers.
Habitat
Trifolium Repens grows in a variety of habitats, including meadows, fields, lawns, and pastures. It is also commonly found in disturbed areas such as roadsides and waste lands. The plant can grow in both acidic and alkaline soils and thrives in areas with high rainfall and moderate temperatures.
Question and Answer
Q: Is the White Clover edible?
A: Yes, the plant is edible and is commonly used as forage for livestock.
Q: Can the White Clover be used as a cover crop?
A: Yes, the plant is often used as a cover crop to improve soil fertility and prevent erosion.
Q: Does the White Clover attract bees?
A: Yes, the plant is a valuable source of nectar for bees and other pollinators.
Q: Can the White Clover be grown indoors?
A: It is possible to grow the plant indoors, but it requires ample sunlight and regular watering.
Related Plants
- Trifolium Pratense (Red Clover)
- Trifolium Hybridum (Alsike Clover)
- Trifolium Aureum (Golden Clover)
- Trifolium Campestre (Hop Clover)
References
- “Trifolium repens”. Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed 15 October 2021. <http://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/plantfinder/plantfinderdetails.aspx?kempercode=c288>
- “White Clover”. USDA NRCS. Accessed 15 October 2021. <https://plants.usda.gov/core/profile?symbol=TRRE2>
- “Trifolium repens”. Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew. Accessed 15 October 2021. <http://www.plantsoftheworldonline.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:528133-1>
