Clammy Clover

(Trifolium obtusiflorum)

Clammy Clover (Trifolium obtusiflorum)

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Climate Requirements

Precipitation 15" - 47"
High Temp. 81°F - 95°F
Low Temp. 33°F - 41°F

Summary

Trifolium obtusiflorum, commonly known as Clammy Clover, is an annual herb native to the grasslands, meadows, and open areas within the California Floristic Province, which includes the Peninsular, Transverse, and Sierra Nevada ranges, as well as the California Coast Ranges and extends into southwestern Oregon. It typically thrives in moist, well-drained soils along streambanks, in wet meadows, and in other seasonally damp environments. Clammy Clover reaches a modest height of up to 12 inches (30 cm) and has a distinctive appearance with its hairy, glandular, and sticky leaves. The leaves consist of sharply toothed, pointed oval leaflets that can grow up to 2 inches long. During its flowering season in the spring and early summer, it produces an inflorescence that is a dense head of small, pea-like flowers, which are pink and purple with white tips, adding a splash of color to its native habitats.

Clammy Clover is valued for its ability to fix nitrogen in the soil, making it beneficial for soil health and an excellent choice for restoration projects and naturalized plantings. It is also used in wildflower meadows and as a cover crop in agriculture. This species prefers full sun to partial shade, but it is relatively low maintenance once established. While not commonly used in ornamental horticulture, it can be an interesting addition to native plant gardens.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

  • Plant Type: Herb
  • Height: 0.5-1.5 feet
  • Width: 0.5-2 feet
  • Growth Rate: Moderate
  • Flower Color: White, Pink
  • Flowering Season: Spring, Summer
  • Leaf Retention:

Growth Requirements

  • Sun: Full Sun, Part Shade
  • Drainage: Medium

Common Uses

Bee Garden, Low Maintenance

Natural Habitat

Native to grasslands, meadows, and open areas within the California Floristic Province, including moist, well-drained soils along streambanks and in wet meadows

Other Names

Common Names: Clustered Clover, Sharp-Tooth Clover, Creek Clover, Sour-Salt Clover

Scientific Names: Trifolium obtusiflorum, Trifolium majus, Trifolium obtusiflorum var. majus, Trifolium roscidum, Trifolium tridentatum var. obtusiflorum

GBIF Accepted Name: Trifolium obtusiflorum