White clover

Trifolium repens

Trifolium repens, commonly known as White Clover, is a low-growing perennial plant belonging to the Fabaceae family. Native to Europe and Central Asia, it has become naturalized in many regions worldwide. White Clover is well-known for its trifoliate leaves and white, globe-shaped flower heads. Here's an informative description of this plant:

Description:

  1. Plant Structure:

    • Size: White Clover typically forms low-growing mats and reaches a height of 4 to 6 inches (10 to 15 cm).
    • Growth Form: It has a prostrate or creeping growth habit.

  2. Leaves:

    • Leaf Structure: The leaves are trifoliate, with each leaflet being oval to heart-shaped.
    • Stipules: The base of the leaf stalk has membranous stipules.

  3. Flowers:

    • Inflorescence: White Clover produces white, ball-shaped flower heads borne on long stalks.
    • Flowering Season: Flowers bloom from spring to early autumn.

  4. Roots:

    • Root System: White Clover has a fibrous root system.

Identification:

  • Trifoliate Leaves: The trifoliate leaves are a key identifier, with each leaflet having a characteristic shape.
  • White Flower Heads: The globular, white flower heads on long stalks are distinctive.

Ecological Role:

  1. Nitrogen Fixation: White Clover forms symbiotic relationships with nitrogen-fixing bacteria, contributing nitrogen to the soil.
  2. Forage: It is commonly used as forage for livestock due to its palatability.

Uses:

  1. Lawn Cover: White Clover is sometimes intentionally included in lawn seed mixes for its ability to fix nitrogen and its tolerance to foot traffic.
  2. Cover Crop: Used as a cover crop to improve soil fertility and structure.

Management:

  1. Mowing: Regular mowing can control the height and encourage a dense, low-growing habit.
  2. Cultural Practices: White Clover is often managed through cultural practices in lawns and agricultural settings.

Note: While White Clover is valued for its ecological and forage benefits, it may be considered a weed in certain contexts, especially in monoculture lawns.