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Description
Trifolium Depauperatum, commonly known as the Pauper Clover or Starved Clover, is a perennial clover species belonging to the Fabaceae family. It is native to the United States and can be found in several states, including Arizona, California, and Nevada. The plant gets its common name, Pauper Clover, due to its ability to grow in poor soil conditions where other plants fail to thrive. The plant has been used in land restoration projects to help reestablish natural vegetation in disturbed areas.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Fabales |
| Family | Fabaceae |
| Genus | Trifolium |
Appearance
Trifolium Depauperatum is a small, herbaceous plant that grows up to 15 cm tall. The plant has a taproot system and trifoliate leaves that are green and hairless. The leaflets are oval or elliptical, with a length of 5-10 mm and width of 4-6 mm. The flowers of the plant are small and pink, with a diameter of 4-6 mm. The plant blooms from May to September, and the fruits are small, dry, and contain a single seed.
Care Guide
Trifolium Depauperatum is a hardy plant that requires minimal care. Here are some care tips for growing this plant:
- Water: The plant is drought tolerant and does not require regular watering.
- Fertilization: The plant does not require regular fertilization. However, adding compost or a slow-release fertilizer to the soil can improve the plant’s growth.
- Soil: The plant prefers well-drained, sandy soil. It can also grow in poor soil conditions.
- Sunlight: The plant prefers full sun to partial shade.
- Hardiness Zones: Trifolium Depauperatum can grow in hardiness zones 7-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Trifolium Depauperatum is susceptible to some pests and diseases, including:
- Aphids: These sap-sucking insects can cause stunted growth and yellowing of the leaves.
- Spider Mites: These tiny insects can cause yellowing and wilting of the leaves.
- Leaf Spot: This fungal disease can cause brown spots on the leaves and lead to defoliation.
- Rust: This fungal disease can cause orange or brown spots on the leaves.
Habitat
Trifolium Depauperatum is commonly found in dry, open areas, including grasslands, chaparral, and sagebrush scrub. The plant can grow in a variety of soil types, including sandy and rocky soils. It can also tolerate poor soil conditions and is often found in disturbed areas, such as roadsides, abandoned fields, and mining sites.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Trifolium Depauperatum a good plant for erosion control?
A: Yes, Trifolium Depauperatum has been used in land restoration projects to help control erosion and reestablish natural vegetation in disturbed areas.
Q: Can Trifolium Depauperatum grow in shade?
A: While the plant prefers full sun, it can also grow in partial shade.
Q: How often should Trifolium Depauperatum be watered?
A: Trifolium Depauperatum is drought tolerant and does not require regular watering.
Q: Does Trifolium Depauperatum attract bees?
A: Yes, Trifolium Depauperatum is a pollinator plant and attracts bees and other beneficial insects.
Related Plants
- Trifolium Albopurpureum
- Trifolium Macraei
- Trifolium Monanthum
- Trifolium Wormskioldii
References
- “Trifolium Depauperatum – (A. Gray) E. Greene”. Plants For A Future. Retrieved 2021-08-12.
- “Trifolium Depauperatum”. California Native Plant Society. Retrieved 2021-08-12.
- “Trifolium Depauperatum”. USDA NRCS Plant Database. Retrieved 2021-08-12.
