Knotted Clover

(Trifolium striatum)

Knotted Clover (Trifolium striatum)

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Climate Requirements

Precipitation 21" - 38"
High Temp. 68°F - 84°F
Low Temp. 28°F - 38°F

Summary

Trifolium striatum, commonly known as Knotted Clover or Soft Trefoil, is an annual herb native to grasslands and open areas in Europe, the Mediterranean, and Western Asia. It typically grows to a height of 4-16 inches (10-40 cm) and spreads out to form a low mat. Knotted Clover has a distinctive appearance with its trifoliate (three-parted) leaves and small, spherical flower heads that are usually pink or purple, blooming from late spring to early summer. The flowers are modest in size but can add a subtle charm to a garden setting.

Knotted Clover is valued for its nitrogen-fixing abilities, which improve soil fertility, making it useful in agricultural settings as a cover crop. It is also used in wildflower meadows and as a ground cover in gardens due to its low maintenance requirements. This plant prefers full sun to partial shade and thrives in well-drained soils. While generally not prone to serious pests or diseases, it can suffer from root rot in poorly drained soils. Knotted Clover is not typically invasive but can self-seed readily in conducive conditions.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

  • Plant Type: Herb
  • Height: 0.5-1.5 feet
  • Width: 0.5-1 feet
  • Growth Rate: Moderate
  • Flower Color: Pink
  • Flowering Season: Summer
  • Leaf Retention:

Growth Requirements

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

Common Uses

Bee Garden, Butterfly Garden, Low Maintenance

Natural Habitat

Native to grasslands and open areas in Europe, the Mediterranean, and Western Asia

Other Names

Common Names: Striated Clover, Soft Clover

Scientific Names: Trifolium striatum, Trifolium conicum, Trifolium conicum, Trifolium conicum, Trifolium conicum, Trifolium conicum, Trifolium cylindricum, Trifolium incanum, Trifolium kitaibelianum

GBIF Accepted Name: Trifolium striatum