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Description
Trifolium Barbigerum, commonly known as the bearded clover, is a perennial herbaceous plant belonging to the Fabaceae family. It is native to the Mediterranean region and can be found in North Africa, Europe, and Asia. The plant has a unique appearance, with a dense, hairy inflorescence and light green leaves. It can grow up to 60 cm in height and produces pink or purple flowers that bloom from late spring to early summer.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Fabales |
| Family | Fabaceae |
| Genus | Trifolium |
Appearance
The bearded clover has a unique appearance that sets it apart from other clover species. The plant has light green, trifoliate leaves, with each leaflet measuring 2-4 cm in length. The inflorescence is dense and hairy, with pink or purple flowers that bloom from late spring to early summer. The plant can grow up to 60 cm in height and has a sprawling growth habit.
Care Guide
To grow healthy bearded clover, it is essential to provide it with the right growing conditions. Here is a care guide to follow:- Water: The plant prefers moist soil and requires regular watering, especially during hot and dry weather.- Fertilization: Apply a balanced fertilizer during the growing season to promote healthy growth.- Soil: The bearded clover prefers well-draining, loamy soil with a pH of 6.0 to 7.5.- Sunlight: The plant prefers full sun to partial shade and can tolerate some shade during the hottest part of the day.- Hardiness Zones: The bearded clover can grow in zones 5-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
The bearded clover is relatively pest and disease-resistant. However, it is susceptible to root rot, leaf spot, and powdery mildew. To prevent these diseases, ensure that the soil is well-draining and provide proper air circulation by spacing the plants adequately. Aphids and spider mites can also infest the plant, but they can be controlled by using insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Habitat
The bearded clover is native to the Mediterranean region and can be found in North Africa, Europe, and Asia. It prefers to grow in open, sunny areas, such as meadows, pastures, and roadsides. The plant is also commonly used in landscaping and can be found in gardens and parks.
Question and Answer
Q: Can the bearded clover tolerate drought?
A: No, the bearded clover prefers moist soil and requires regular watering.
Q: Can the bearded clover grow in shade?
A: The plant prefers full sun to partial shade and can tolerate some shade during the hottest part of the day.
Q: Is the bearded clover invasive?
A: No, the bearded clover is not considered an invasive species.
Q: Can the bearded clover be used as a cover crop?
A: Yes, the bearded clover is commonly used as a cover crop because of its ability to fix nitrogen in the soil.
Related Plants
– Trifolium Alexandrinum (Egyptian clover)- Trifolium Repens (White clover)- Trifolium Pratense (Red clover)
References
– “Trifolium Barbigerum.” USDA Plants Database. Accessed August 12, 2021. https://plants.usda.gov/home/plantProfile?symbol=TRBA6.- “Trifolium Barbigerum – Plant Finder.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed August 12, 2021. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=l600.
