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Description
Delostoma Integrifolium, commonly known as the Mexican clover, is a perennial flowering plant that belongs to the legume family Fabaceae. This plant is native to Mexico and is typically found in grasslands, meadows, and disturbed areas. It is a low-growing plant that can reach a height of up to 30 cm and a spread of up to 60 cm. It produces small, white, and pink flowers that bloom from mid-spring to early summer.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Fabales |
| Family | Fabaceae |
| Genus | Delostoma |
Appearance
The Mexican clover has small, rounded, and dark green leaves that grow on stems that are covered in fine hairs. Its flowers are small, white, and pink, and grow in clusters on long stems that rise above the foliage. The plant produces small, flat, and oblong seed pods that contain several small seeds. The Mexican clover is a low-growing plant that can spread up to 60 cm in diameter.
Care Guide
The Mexican clover is a low-maintenance plant that is easy to care for. Here are some tips to help you grow and care for this plant:
- Water: The Mexican clover prefers moist soil, so make sure to water it regularly, especially during hot and dry weather.
- Fertilization: This plant does not require frequent fertilization, but you can apply a balanced fertilizer once or twice a year to promote growth and blooming.
- Soil: The Mexican clover prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. It can grow in a wide range of soil pH levels, from acidic to alkaline.
- Sunlight: This plant prefers full sun to partial shade. It can tolerate some shade, but too much shade can reduce its blooming and growth.
- Hardiness Zones: The Mexican clover is hardy in USDA zones 9 to 11, which means it can tolerate temperatures as low as 20°F (-6.67°C).
Common Pests & Diseases
The Mexican clover is generally considered to be a pest- and disease-resistant plant. However, it can occasionally be affected by some pests and diseases, including:
- Aphids: These small insects can suck the sap from the plant and cause it to wilt and yellow. You can control aphids by spraying the plant with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
- Spider mites: These tiny pests can also suck the sap from the plant and cause it to develop yellow stippling. You can control spider mites by spraying the plant with neem oil or a miticide.
- Root rot: This fungal disease can cause the plant to wilt, yellow, and eventually die. You can prevent root rot by avoiding overwatering and ensuring good soil drainage.
Habitat
The Mexican clover is native to Mexico and is found in grasslands, meadows, and disturbed areas. It prefers well-draining soil and can tolerate a wide range of soil pH levels. This plant is hardy in USDA zones 9 to 11 and can tolerate temperatures as low as 20°F (-6.67°C).
Question and Answer
Q: Is the Mexican clover a good groundcover plant?
A: Yes, the Mexican clover can be used as a groundcover plant in sunny to partially shaded areas. It is a low-growing plant that can spread up to 60 cm in diameter.
Q: Can the Mexican clover be grown in containers?
A: Yes, the Mexican clover can be grown in containers as long as the container has good drainage and the soil is kept moist. It is a low-maintenance plant that can thrive in a wide range of growing conditions.
Q: Does the Mexican clover attract pollinators?
A: Yes, the Mexican clover is a good plant for attracting pollinators such as bees and butterflies. Its small, white, and pink flowers are attractive to these insects and can help promote pollination in your garden.
Q: How often should I fertilize my Mexican clover?
A: The Mexican clover does not require frequent fertilization, but you can apply a balanced fertilizer once or twice a year to promote growth and blooming. Make sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions for application rates and frequency.
Related Plants
- Delostoma Incarnatum
- Delostoma Alboviolaceum
- Delostoma Macrophyllum
References
- https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/flowers/clover/mexican-clover-plant.htm
- https://www.gardeningchannel.com/how-to-grow-mexican-clover-plants-delostoma-integrifolium/
- https://www.wildflower.org/plants/result.php?id_plant=DEIN
