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Description
Trifolium Hirtum, commonly known as Hairy Clover, is a perennial plant species from the Fabaceae family. It is native to the western United States, especially California and Oregon. The plant grows up to 60cm tall and has a dense cluster of leaves and flowers. Its flowers are small and pink, arranged in spherical clusters. The leaves are green and hairy, with three leaflets that are slightly toothed at the edges.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Fabales |
| Family | Fabaceae |
| Genus | Trifolium |
Appearance
Trifolium Hirtum has a dense cluster of leaves and flowers. Its flowers are small and pink, arranged in spherical clusters. The leaves are green and hairy, with three leaflets that are slightly toothed at the edges. The plant grows up to 60cm tall and has a fibrous root system. It has a deep taproot that helps it to survive in drought conditions. The plant is known for its high-quality forage and is often used as a fodder crop for livestock.
Care Guide
Trifolium Hirtum requires moderate watering and fertilization. It prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. The plant thrives in full sun but can also tolerate partial shade. It is hardy in USDA hardiness zones 7 to 10. The plant can be propagated by seed or by dividing the root system. It is recommended to fertilize the plant in the spring and fall with a balanced fertilizer. In areas with dry summers, it is recommended to water the plant regularly to prevent drought stress.
Common Pests & Diseases
Trifolium Hirtum is susceptible to a few pests and diseases. The most common pests that affect the plant are aphids, which can cause damage to the leaves and slow the plant’s growth. The plant is also susceptible to root rot, which can be caused by overwatering or poorly draining soil. Powdery mildew is another common disease that affects Trifolium Hirtum. It can be treated with fungicides or by improving air circulation around the plant.
Habitat
Trifolium Hirtum is native to the western United States, especially California and Oregon. It grows in areas with dry summers and mild winters. The plant is often found in grasslands, meadows, and oak woodlands. It is also commonly found along roadsides and in disturbed areas. The plant is well adapted to survive in drought conditions and can grow in soils with low fertility.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Trifolium Hirtum edible?
A: Yes, Trifolium Hirtum is often used as a forage crop for livestock, but it is also edible for humans.
Q: Can Trifolium Hirtum grow in wet soil?
A: No, Trifolium Hirtum prefers well-draining soil and can be susceptible to root rot if grown in wet soil.
Q: How often should I fertilize Trifolium Hirtum?
A: Trifolium Hirtum should be fertilized in the spring and fall with a balanced fertilizer.
Q: What is the best time to plant Trifolium Hirtum?
A: The best time to plant Trifolium Hirtum is in the fall or early spring.
Related Plants
- Trifolium repens (White Clover)
- Trifolium pratense (Red Clover)
- Trifolium hybridum (Alsike Clover)
References
- USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service. (n.d.). Plants profile for Trifolium hirtum (hairy clover). Retrieved from https://plants.usda.gov/core/profile?symbol=TRHI2
- University of California Agriculture and Natural Resources. (n.d.). Hairy clover. Retrieved from https://ucanr.edu/sites/foragelab/Forage_Species/Legumes/Hairy_Clover/
- Rhoads, A. F., & Block, T. A. (2000). The Plants of Pennsylvania: An Illustrated Manual. University of Pennsylvania Press.
