Contents
Description
Trifolium Aureum, also known as Golden Clover, is a perennial herbaceous plant that belongs to the Fabaceae family. It is native to Europe and Asia and has been introduced in North America as an ornamental plant. Golden Clover grows up to 30 cm tall and produces yellow flowers that bloom from May to September. Its leaves are trifoliate, oval in shape, and have a unique golden-yellow color. This plant is commonly used in pastures and meadows as a forage crop and is also a popular choice for landscaping due to its vibrant color.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Fabales |
| Family | Fabaceae |
| Genus | Trifolium |
Appearance
Golden Clover has a unique golden-yellow color that sets it apart from other clover species. Its leaves are trifoliate, with each leaflet measuring about 1 cm in length. The flowers of Golden Clover are yellow and bloom from May to September. This plant grows up to 30 cm tall and has a bushy appearance.
Care Guide
Golden Clover is a low-maintenance plant that is easy to care for. Here are some tips to help you take care of your Golden Clover:
- Water: Water your Golden Clover regularly, especially during dry periods. Make sure the soil is moist but not waterlogged.
- Fertilization: Golden Clover does not require much fertilizer. However, you can apply a balanced fertilizer once a year to promote growth.
- Soil: Golden Clover grows well in well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. It can tolerate a wide range of soil pH levels and does well in both acidic and alkaline soil.
- Sunlight: Golden Clover prefers full sun but can also tolerate partial shade.
- Hardiness Zones: Golden Clover is hardy in USDA Zones 4-8.
Common Pests & Diseases
Golden Clover is relatively pest and disease resistant. However, it can be susceptible to root rot and powdery mildew. Here are some pests and diseases that can affect Golden Clover:
- Root rot: This disease is caused by fungi that attack the roots of the plant. It can be prevented by ensuring that the soil is well-draining and not waterlogged.
- Powdery mildew: This fungal disease appears as a white powdery coating on the leaves of the plant. It can be prevented by ensuring good air circulation around the plant.
Habitat
Golden Clover is native to Europe and Asia and has been introduced in North America as an ornamental plant. It grows well in meadows, pastures, and open fields. Golden Clover is commonly used as a forage crop for livestock and is also a popular choice for landscaping due to its vibrant color.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Golden Clover a good forage crop?
A: Yes, Golden Clover is an excellent forage crop for livestock. It is high in protein and is a good source of nutrition for grazing animals.
Q: Can Golden Clover grow in alkaline soil?
A: Yes, Golden Clover can grow in alkaline soil. It is a hardy plant that can tolerate a wide range of soil pH levels.
Q: Is Golden Clover an invasive species?
A: No, Golden Clover is not considered an invasive species. It is a non-native plant that has been introduced in North America as an ornamental plant and for forage purposes.
Q: Can Golden Clover be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Golden Clover can be grown in containers. However, it may not reach its full size potential in a container.
Related Plants
- Trifolium Alexandrinum
- Trifolium Pratense
- Trifolium Repens
References
- USDA Plants Database. (n.d.). Trifolium aureum. Retrieved from https://plants.usda.gov/core/profile?symbol=TRAU
- Royal Horticultural Society. (n.d.). Trifolium aureum. Retrieved from https://www.rhs.org.uk/plants/18442/trifolium-aureum/details
- Gardenia. (n.d.). Trifolium aureum (Golden Clover). Retrieved from https://www.gardenia.net/plant/trifolium-aureum-golden-clover
