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Description
Trifolium Kingii Subsp. Productum, commonly known as King’s clover, is a perennial plant that belongs to the Fabaceae family. It is native to California and can be found in arid and semi-arid regions. This plant produces a deep taproot, which makes it drought-tolerant and suitable for xeriscaping. King’s clover is a valuable forage plant for livestock and wildlife.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Fabales |
| Family | Fabaceae |
| Genus | Trifolium |
Appearance
King’s clover has a bushy growth habit and can grow up to 40 cm tall. It has trifoliate leaves with a distinct V-shaped marking on each leaflet. The flowers are pink to purple in color and are arranged in rounded heads, which are about 2 cm in diameter. The heads sit on long stalks that rise above the foliage. The plant blooms from May to July, and the seeds are produced in small pods.
Care Guide
King’s clover is a low-maintenance plant that requires little care once established. Here are some guidelines for its care:
- Water: Water the plant deeply once a week during the growing season. Reduce watering in winter.
- Fertilization: Fertilize the plant with a balanced fertilizer once in spring and once in fall.
- Soil: King’s clover prefers well-drained, sandy soil with a pH of 6.0 to 7.5.
- Sunlight: The plant prefers full sun but can tolerate partial shade.
- Hardiness Zones: King’s clover is hardy in USDA zones 8 to 10.
Common Pests & Diseases
King’s clover is susceptible to a few pests and diseases, including:
- Aphids: These small insects suck sap from the plant, causing stunted growth and distorted leaves.
- Clover mites: These tiny red or brown mites feed on the plant, causing yellow spots on the leaves.
- Root rot: This fungal disease causes the roots to rot, leading to wilting and death of the plant.
Habitat
King’s clover is native to California and can be found in a variety of habitats, including grasslands, chaparral, and oak woodlands. It prefers well-drained soil and can tolerate drought and high temperatures. The plant is an important food source for many animals, including deer, rabbits, and quail.
Question and Answer
Q: Is King’s clover a good plant for xeriscaping?
A: Yes, King’s clover has a deep taproot that makes it drought-tolerant and suitable for xeriscaping.
Q: Can King’s clover grow in partial shade?
A: Yes, King’s clover can tolerate partial shade, but it prefers full sun.
Q: What is the blooming period of King’s clover?
A: King’s clover blooms from May to July.
Q: Is King’s clover suitable for livestock grazing?
A: Yes, King’s clover is a valuable forage plant for livestock and wildlife.
Related Plants
- Trifolium albopurpureum
- Trifolium campestre
- Trifolium fragiferum
- Trifolium pratense
References
- USDA Plants Database: Trifolium kingii subsp. productum
- CalFlora: Trifolium kingii subsp. productum
- Las Pilitas Nursery: Trifolium kingii subsp. productum
