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Description
Trifolium Variegatum, commonly known as Variegated Clover, is a perennial plant that belongs to the Fabaceae family. This plant is native to Europe and Asia, but it has become naturalized in other parts of the world, including North America. The plant features bright green leaves with cream-colored edges that form a dense mat. It produces pinkish-white flowers that bloom from May to September. The flowers are attractive to bees and butterflies, making it a popular choice for pollinator gardens.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Fabales |
| Family | Fabaceae |
| Genus | Trifolium |
Appearance
Trifolium Variegatum grows up to 4-6 inches tall and spreads up to 12 inches wide. It has a prostrate growth habit with a dense mat of bright green leaves that have cream-colored edges. The leaves are trifoliate, with each leaflet measuring up to 1 inch long and 0.5 inches wide. The plant produces pinkish-white flowers that bloom from May to September. The flowers are clustered in dense, round heads that are up to 1 inch in diameter. The flowers are followed by small, oblong-shaped seedpods that contain one or two seeds.
Care Guide
Water
Trifolium Variegatum prefers moist but well-drained soil. Water the plant regularly to keep the soil consistently moist, but avoid overwatering, as it can lead to root rot.
Fertilization
Trifolium Variegatum does not require heavy fertilization. A light application of balanced fertilizer once a year is sufficient to keep the plant healthy.
Soil
Trifolium Variegatum prefers well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. It can tolerate a wide range of soil types, including sandy, loamy, or clay soils.
Sunlight
Trifolium Variegatum prefers partial shade to full sun. It can tolerate full shade but may not bloom as profusely as it would in partial shade or full sun.
Hardiness Zones
Trifolium Variegatum is hardy in USDA zones 4-8.
Common Pests & Diseases
Trifolium Variegatum is relatively pest-free and disease-resistant. However, it may attract aphids, spider mites, or leafhoppers. Regularly inspect the plant for signs of infestation and address them promptly to prevent further damage.
Habitat
Trifolium Variegatum is native to Europe and Asia and has become naturalized in other parts of the world, including North America. It prefers moist, well-drained soils and can be found in meadows, pastures, and along roadsides.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Trifolium Variegatum edible?
A: Yes, Trifolium Variegatum is edible and can be used as a forage crop for livestock. Its leaves and flowers are also edible and can be added to salads or used to make tea.
Q: How often should I water Trifolium Variegatum?
A: Water Trifolium Variegatum regularly to keep the soil consistently moist, but avoid overwatering, as it can lead to root rot.
Q: Is Trifolium Variegatum invasive?
A: Trifolium Variegatum can be invasive in some areas, particularly in moist, fertile soils. However, it is not considered a major threat to native ecosystems.
Q: Can Trifolium Variegatum be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Trifolium Variegatum can be grown in containers as long as the soil is kept consistently moist and the plant receives partial shade to full sun.
Related Plants
- Trifolium pratense (Red Clover)
- Trifolium repens (White Clover)
- Trifolium incarnatum (Crimson Clover)
- Trifolium arvense (Rabbitfoot Clover)
References
- “Trifolium Variegatum.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed August 17, 2021. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=281772.
- “Trifolium Variegatum.” Plant Finder. Accessed August 17, 2021. https://www.monrovia.com/plant-catalog/plants/2111/variegated-clover/.
- “Trifolium Variegatum.” NatureServe Explorer. Accessed August 17, 2021. https://explorer.natureserve.org/Taxon/ELEMENT_GLOBAL.2.141850/Trifolium_variegatum.
