With a tri-lobed leaf structure, clovers showcase fruit that encases a pair of seeds. Their flowers come in shades of white, pink, yellow, or red, attracting bees. Consequently, clover honey is a sought-after byproduct.
Remarkably, clovers thrive under shade, resist frequent mowing, and endure foot traffic. Owing to their nutritional makeup, they are often used as animal feed, being rich in protein, phosphorus, and calcium. Worldwide, about 300 clover species are recognized.
Alsike Clover (Trifolium hybridum L)
Known in some circles as Swedish clover, it was first showcased in the 19th century and is prevalent in Britain. Its blossoms transition from pink to white and eventually brown upon maturity. Typically, its smooth stems stretch between 1 to 3 feet, and it dons tri-lobed green leaves. Wet soils are its playground, but it’s also drought-resistant and can thrive in highly acidic soils.
White Clover (Trifolium repens L)
Often referred to as Dutch clover, it predominates in meadows and pastures. Its flower heads house between 20 to 100 florets that are either pink or white. Its trifoliate leaves sprout from a singular stem, bearing heart-shaped, reddish-yellow seeds.
Subterranean Clover (Trifolium subterraneum L)
Flourishing primarily in the western regions of Oregon and California, this clover variant is a staple in spring forages. It pairs well with grass, showing off heart-shaped, trifoliate leaves and 3-4 white florets.
Strawberry Clover (Trifolium fragiferum L)
A low-lying legume, it can be consumed fresh or blended with grass. Its distinctive feature is its spherical clusters of pink and white flowers.
Rose Clover (Trifolium hirtum All)
Cultivated extensively in California and parts of Oklahoma and Texas, it’s a premium quality legume suitable for diverse applications. Its purplish flowers are arranged densely, accompanied by pale green leaves.
Red Clover (Trifolium pratense L)
A widely sown perennial, its utility stretches from fodder to nectar source. Bearing clusters of pink to white florets, it stands out with its elongated, trifoliate leaves. Favoring North America’s humid zones, it thrives even in highly acidic soils.
Persian Clover (Trifolium resupinatum L)
Segregated into majus and resupinatum sub-species, its uses are as varied as its growing locations. Resilient, it stands strong even in mildly saline conditions.
Kura Clover (Trifolium ambiguum M. Bieb)
Often termed the Caucasian clover, it’s recognized by its solid stems and large pink flowers. Acidity and flooding are no match for this resilient plant.
Gland Clover (Trifolium glanduliferum boiss)
Native to Turkey and parts of Asia, it grows to about 20 inches. Its pinkish-white flowers, which turn a deeper hue upon maturity, and its smooth leaves set it apart.
Crimson Clover (Trifolium incarnatum L)
Esteemed as a winter plant, its deep red flowers are a sight to behold. Kentucky and Texas are its favored terrains.
Balansa Clover (Trifolium michelianum L)
A versatile clover type, it’s notable for its resilience against severe cold. Its blossoms are an assemblage of pink and white florets.
Arrowleaf Clover (Trifolium vesiculosum savi)
A winter annual legume, its conical flower heads stand out. Though it prefers moist conditions, it’s versatile in terms of soil pH.
This overview showcases the vast and diverse world of clovers, each with its distinct characteristics and offerings.