Intermediate Clover
trifolium medium
Also known as: ["Common Trefoil","Hedge Clover"]
Overview
A perennial legume with trifoliate leaves and pinkish-white flowers, native to Europe and naturalized in parts of North America.
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 medium |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: 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":"4–8"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Moderately well-draining; avoid waterlogged conditions.
- Soil Type: Rich, loamy soil with good organic matter; well-draining.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: low
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Light pruning as needed; major pruning in late winter or early spring.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of growth if necessary.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun to partial shade (6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily); adjust for intense summer sun.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to intense sunlight; provide shade during peak afternoon heat; monitor for signs of scorching.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easymoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plants for even light exposure; use shade cloth in extreme heat; avoid direct sun on young plants.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure soil dries between waterings; avoid wetting foliage.
Soil
well-drained, loamy soil with moderate organic content
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Avoid heavy clay soils; ensure good aeration; mulch to retain moisture.
Temperature
Prefers cool to moderate temperatures (60–75°F or 15–24°C); tolerates cooler nights.
Avoid sudden temperature shifts; protect from frost; ensure good air circulation.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer
Fertilize sparingly to avoid overfeeding; apply to moist soil to prevent root burn; flush soil occasionally to remove buildup.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or division; seeds can also be sown in spring.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a 4–6 inch cutting.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone (optional).
- Plant in medium.
- Keep moist and warm.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm, humid environment with indirect light; maintain consistent moisture.
Medium
Well-draining potting mix with perlite or sand; can also root in water.
Hormone
Rooting hormone can be used but is not strictly necessary.
Timeline
Roots typically form in 2–4 weeks; new growth may take 6–8 weeks.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, well-draining mix.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain high humidity; avoid direct sun during rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back tips for bushiness; cut back stems to healthy nodes; remove crossing or damaged branches.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushier growth, and remove dead or diseased parts.
Tools
Pruning shears, sharp knife, gloves.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune during dormancy; make clean cuts; dispose of clippings.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before new growth begins.
Pot Size
Choose a pot 1–2 inches larger in diameter than the current one.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if crowded; place in fresh soil with good drainage; water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for nutrient replenishment.
Checklist
Prepare new pot; trim roots if needed; use fresh soil; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; avoid wetting leaves.
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.
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; incorporate perlite or sand for drainage; ensure organic matter is well-mixed.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, yellowing leaves, or stunted growth in extreme heat; browning leaf edges in cold stress.
Cold Stress
Slows growth and may cause leaf damage or dieback in prolonged cold; frost can be lethal.
Solution: Provide frost protection in winter; move potted plants indoors; use row covers for garden plants.
Hot Stress
Leaves may wilt, curl, or scorch; flowering may be reduced in excessive heat.
Solution: Provide afternoon shade; increase watering; use mulch to retain soil moisture.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check fertilizer type; dilute correctly; apply during active growth; avoid winter feeding.
Fertilizing Method
Use balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season; avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicTrifolium medium is not toxic to cats. While cats may not typically consume this plant, it poses no known toxicity risks if ingested.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Non-toxicTrifolium medium is not toxic to dogs. It is commonly found in pastures and is often consumed by grazing animals without adverse effects.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Non-toxicTrifolium medium, commonly known as the intermediate clover, is not considered toxic to humans. It is generally safe for consumption and is often used in forage for livestock.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Trifolium medium toxic to pets?
A: No, it is non-toxic to dogs and cats.
Q: Does this plant attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and birds.
Q: How much maintenance does it require?
A: It requires low maintenance and is drought tolerant.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Fabaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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