About
A red clover that reaches 30-50cm in height and bears trifoliate leaves and rounded clusters of pinkish-red flowers 2-3cm across from May to October. A great source of nectar, especially for bees. Traditionally an element of hay meadows where it fixes nitrogen in its roots.
About the genus
Trifolium are erect or creeping annuals, biennials and herbaceous perennials with trefoil leaves and small, pea-like flowers usually in clusters or short spikes
Growing conditions
SunlightFull sun
Soil typeClay, Loam, Sand
Soil pHAcid, Neutral
Soil moistureMoist but well-drained, Well-drained
AspectEast-facing, South-facing, West-facing
ExposureSheltered
UK hardinessH7
Plant details
Plant typeHerbaceous Perennial
HabitBushy
FoliageDeciduous
Height0.5-1 metres
Spread0.1-0.5 metres
Time to full height2-5 years
Suggested usesWildflower meadow, Wildlife gardens
Native toEurope, Asia, N Africa
Care notes
CultivationPrefers a sunny site and a slightly acid soil with low levels of nitrogen (ie un-manured ground). Naturally occurs in grassland. See clover in lawns for more information. May be grown as green manure; see our video How to grow and sow green manure for advice
PruningNo pruning required
PropagationPropagate by seed
Pest resistanceGenerally pest-free
Disease resistanceGenerally disease-free