Lesser clover, Yellow clover
trifolium dubium
Also known as: ["Lesser trefoil","Lad's love"]
Overview
A small, yellow-flowered clover species native to Europe and naturalized in many parts of the world.
Benefits & Perks
["wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","drought tolerant","low maintenance"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Fabales |
| Family: | Fabaceae |
| Genus: | Trifolium |
| Botanical Name: | Trifolium dubium |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Herbs & Weeds
- Suitable Location: outdoor garden bed or container in a location with good air circulation
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"6–9"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, loamy soil with added organic matter; can tolerate poor soils but thrives with enrichment.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: very low
- Toughness Level: high
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically after flowering or every 2–3 months to maintain shape.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; avoid heavy pruning unless necessary to control size.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun to partial shade; 6–8 hours of direct sunlight per day, with some afternoon shade in hot climates.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to intense sunlight; protect from harsh afternoon sun to prevent scorching; adjust placement based on seasonal light changes.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
very easyeasy
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plants regularly for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter intense light indoors; provide dappled shade in hot climates.
Watering
every 7–10 days, allowing soil to dry slightly between waterings
Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure good drainage; avoid wetting foliage to prevent fungal issues.
Soil
well-draining, loamy soil with moderate organic content
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral, pH 6.0–7.0.
Ensure good drainage to prevent root rot; enrich soil with organic matter for better growth; avoid compacted soil.
Temperature
Prefers cool to moderate temperatures, ideally 60–75°F (15–24°C); tolerates light frosts but may struggle in extreme heat.
Monitor temperature fluctuations; protect from frost; adjust watering based on heat levels.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during active growth with a balanced liquid fertilizer
Apply fertilizer to moist soil to prevent root burn; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; reduce feeding in cooler months.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or seed; stem cuttings are faster and more reliable for home growers.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a 4–6 inch cutting just below a leaf node.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone (optional).
- Plant in moist propagation medium.
- Cover with a plastic bag to maintain humidity.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm, humid environment with indirect light; maintain consistent moisture in the medium.
Medium
Well-draining potting mix, such as a mix of peat and perlite or cactus mix.
Hormone
Optional, but rooting hormone can improve success rates.
Timeline
Roots typically develop in 2–4 weeks; new growth may appear in 4–6 weeks.
Tools Needed
Sharp scissors or pruners, rooting hormone (optional), small pots, plastic bags or propagation dome.
Quick Tips
Use clean tools to prevent disease; maintain high humidity for faster rooting; avoid direct sunlight during rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back stems or trim lightly to encourage branching; remove dead or damaged foliage as needed.
Pruning Plan
Light pruning to maintain shape and encourage bushier growth; remove spent flowers to promote continuous blooming.
Tools
Sharp, clean scissors or pruning shears.
Checklist
Use clean tools; prune to shape the plant; remove dead or diseased parts; avoid pruning in extreme weather.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before the active growing season begins.
Pot Size
Choose a pot one size larger than the current one, with a diameter 1–2 inches wider.
Method
Gently remove the plant from its pot; trim any circling roots; place in a new pot with fresh, well-draining soil; water thoroughly after repotting.
Suggestions
Repot every 1–2 years or when the plant becomes root-bound; beneficial for maintaining vigor and growth.
Checklist
Select appropriate pot size; use fresh soil mix; handle roots gently; water after repotting; provide shade for a few days.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply; ensure drainage; avoid overhead watering.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone; allow excess water to drain away; water early in the day to minimize evaporation and fungal growth.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once the top inch of soil feels dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add compost or well-rotted manure to improve fertility and structure; incorporate perlite or sand for better drainage.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, yellowing leaves, stunted growth, or bud drop in response to extreme temperatures.
Cold Stress
Low temperatures can slow growth and cause leaf discoloration; prolonged cold may lead to root damage.
Solution: Provide frost protection in cold climates; avoid overwatering in cool conditions; move potted plants to a sheltered location.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can cause wilting, leaf scorch, and reduced flowering; may go dormant in extreme heat.
Solution: Provide afternoon shade; increase watering frequency; use mulch to retain soil moisture; avoid fertilizing during heat stress.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer; apply during active growth; avoid winter feeding; flush soil periodically.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength; fertilize every 4–6 weeks during the growing season (spring and summer); avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicTrifolium dubium is not considered toxic to cats. The plant does not pose a significant risk of poisoning when ingested or touched by felines.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic to cats
Dogs
Non-toxicTrifolium dubium is not considered toxic to dogs. The plant is not known to cause adverse effects when ingested or touched by canines.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic to dogs
Humans
Non-toxicTrifolium dubium, commonly known as lesser trefoil or yellow suckling clover, is not considered toxic to humans. It is a common weed in lawns and pastures and is generally safe for human contact and ingestion.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic to humans
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Trifolium dubium edible?
A: Yes, it is non-toxic and can be used in salads or as a garnish.
Q: Does Trifolium dubium attract pollinators?
A: Yes, it is highly attractive to bees and butterflies.
Q: How does Trifolium dubium grow?
A: It spreads easily via seeds and can become invasive in some areas.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Fabaceae |
| Care: | very easy |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days, allowing so |
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