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Description
Trifolium Carolinianum, commonly known as Carolina Clover or Coastal Plain Trefoil, is a small, herbaceous annual plant belonging to the Fabaceae family. It is native to North America, particularly in the southeastern coastal plains, but is also found in other parts of the world, including Australia and New Zealand. The plant grows up to 30 cm tall and has trifoliate leaves, each leaflet being 1-2 cm long. It produces small, pinkish-white flowers in clusters from May to September.
Taxonomic Information
Domain | Eukarya |
Kingdom | Plantae |
Phylum | Spermatophyta |
Class | Magnoliopsida |
Order | Fabales |
Family | Fabaceae |
Genus | Trifolium |
Appearance
Trifolium Carolinianum has a compact, bushy growth habit with a height of up to 30 cm. The leaves are trifoliate, with each leaflet being 1-2 cm long and oval to oblong in shape. The upper surface of the leaves is green, while the lower surface is slightly paler. The flowers are small and pinkish-white, measuring about 6 mm in length, and are produced in clusters from May to September. The fruit is a small, 1-seeded legume.
Care Guide
Trifolium Carolinianum is easy to grow and requires little maintenance. Here are some care tips:
- Water: Water the plant regularly, keeping the soil moist but not waterlogged.
- Fertilization: The plant does not require fertilizer, but you can apply a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season to promote growth.
- Soil: The plant grows best in well-drained, sandy loam soil with a pH range of 5.5 to 6.5.
- Sunlight: The plant prefers full sun to partial shade.
- Hardiness Zones: Trifolium Carolinianum is hardy in USDA zones 7 to 10.
Common Pests & Diseases
Trifolium Carolinianum is generally free of pests and diseases. However, it may occasionally be attacked by spider mites, aphids, or whiteflies. To prevent infestations, keep the plant healthy and well-watered. If necessary, use insecticidal soap or neem oil to control pests.
Habitat
Trifolium Carolinianum is native to the southeastern coastal plains of North America, where it grows in sandy soils in open fields, meadows, and disturbed areas. It is also found in other parts of the world, including Australia and New Zealand, where it has become naturalized in coastal areas.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Trifolium Carolinianum a perennial plant?
A: No, Trifolium Carolinianum is an annual plant.
Q: Can Trifolium Carolinianum tolerate drought?
A: No, Trifolium Carolinianum requires regular watering and does not tolerate drought.
Q: Can Trifolium Carolinianum be grown indoors?
A: No, Trifolium Carolinianum is an outdoor plant and cannot be grown indoors.
Q: Is Trifolium Carolinianum deer-resistant?
A: No, Trifolium Carolinianum is not deer-resistant and may be eaten by deer.
Related Plants
- Trifolium campestre (Field Clover)
- Trifolium pratense (Red Clover)
- Trifolium repens (White Clover)
References
- USDA Plants Database: Trifolium Carolinianum
- Flora of North America: Trifolium Carolinianum
- Dave’s Garden: Trifolium Carolinianum