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Description
Trifolium Plumosum, commonly known as Feather Clover, is a perennial plant that belongs to the Fabaceae family. This plant is native to western North America and can be found growing in dry, rocky areas, and along roadsides. Feather Clover grows up to 60 cm tall and has a spreading habit. The plant produces white to pink flowers that bloom from May to August.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Fabales |
| Family | Fabaceae |
| Genus | Trifolium |
Appearance
The leaves of Feather Clover are gray-green and have a feathery texture, which gives the plant its common name. The leaves are made up of three leaflets, which are about 2-4 cm long. The flowers of this plant are small and arranged in a ball-shaped cluster called a head. Each head can contain up to 60 flowers. The flowers have a sweet smell and attract bees, butterflies, and other pollinators. After the flowers are pollinated, they produce small, hard seeds.
Care Guide
Feather Clover is a low-maintenance plant that is easy to care for. This plant prefers well-drained soil and full sun to partial shade. The plant can tolerate a wide range of soil types, including sandy, loamy, and clay soils. It is drought-tolerant and can survive in areas with little water.
Water: Water the plant deeply once a week during the growing season. Reduce watering during the winter months.
Fertilization: Feather Clover does not require fertilization. However, you can apply a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season to promote growth.
Soil: This plant prefers well-drained soil with a pH of 6.0-7.0.
Sunlight: Feather Clover prefers full sun to partial shade.
Hardiness Zones: This plant is hardy in zones 4-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Feather Clover is generally pest and disease-free. However, it can be susceptible to root rot if the soil is too wet. To prevent root rot, make sure the soil is well-drained.
Habitat
Feather Clover is native to western North America and can be found growing in dry, rocky areas, and along roadsides. This plant is adapted to grow in areas with little water and can survive in harsh conditions.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Feather Clover a good plant for attracting pollinators?
A: Yes, Feather Clover produces sweet-smelling flowers that attract bees, butterflies, and other pollinators.
Q: What is the best soil type for Feather Clover?
A: Feather Clover prefers well-drained soil with a pH of 6.0-7.0.
Q: Can Feather Clover tolerate drought?
A: Yes, Feather Clover is drought-tolerant and can survive in areas with little water.
Q: Does Feather Clover require fertilization?
A: Feather Clover does not require fertilization. However, you can apply a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season to promote growth.
Related Plants
- Trifolium campestre
- Trifolium incarnatum
- Trifolium pratense
- Trifolium repens
References
- “Trifolium plumosum.” USDA Plants Database.
- “Trifolium plumosum.” Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center.
- “Feather Clover.” Montana Field Guide.
