Large Hop Clover

trifolium aureum

Also known as: ["Hop Clover","Large Hop Clover"]

Family: Fabaceae Genus: Trifolium Category: Herbs & Weeds

Overview

A herbaceous annual plant in the legume family, known for its yellow flowers and trifoliate leaves.

Benefits & Perks

["wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","low maintenance","drought tolerant"]

Botanical Classification

Phylum: Magnoliophyta
Class: Magnoliopsida
Order: Fabales
Family: Fabaceae
Genus: Trifolium
Botanical Name: Trifolium aureum

Plant Characteristics

Basic Information
  • Category: Herbs & Weeds
  • Suitable Location: garden bed or container in a location with good air circulation
  • Suitable For:
    Beginners Busy People (low Maintenance) Wildlife Supporters
  • Is Weed: No
  • Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
  • Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–30°C"}
  • Hardiness: {"zones":"3–8"}
  • Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
  • Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
  • Soil Type: Well-draining potting mix with added organic matter; can tolerate average garden soil.
Maintenance Level
  • Maintenance Level: low
  • Toughness Level: moderate
  • Pruning Frequency: Light pruning every 2–3 months; major pruning annually after flowering.
  • Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; avoid heavy pruning unless necessary for health.
Care Details

Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily; tolerate partial shade, especially in hot climates.

Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to direct sun to avoid scorching; place in filtered light during peak summer hours; adjust indoor placement to mimic natural light cycles.

Warning Signs: Yellowing leaves, root rot, or stunted growth indicate poor soil conditions or improper watering.

Care Requirements

Care Difficulty
easy

moderate

Sunlight

full sun to partial shade

Rotate plant weekly for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter intense light; avoid direct afternoon sun.

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 matter

pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).

Use a mix of peat, perlite, and loam; avoid heavy clay soils; test pH periodically.

Temperature

Prefers 60–75°F (15–24°C); tolerates cooler temperatures but avoid frost; heat stress can occur above 85°F (29°C).

Use a thermometer to monitor; group plants for microclimates; adjust watering with temperature changes.

Fertilizing

every 4–6 weeks during growing season

Apply fertilizer after watering to prevent root burn; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; stop fertilizing when plant is dormant.

Propagation

Methods

Stem cuttings or division; seeds can also be used for propagation.

Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
  1. Take a 4–6 inch cutting.
  2. Remove lower leaves.
  3. Dip in rooting hormone.
  4. Plant in medium.
  5. 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

Optional but recommended for faster rooting.

Timeline

Roots develop in 2–4 weeks; new growth appears in 6–8 weeks.

Tools Needed

Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, well-draining soil mix.

Quick Tips

Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain high humidity with a plastic bag; avoid direct sun during rooting.

Pruning & Repotting

Pruning Guide
Method

Pinch back tips to encourage branching; cut just above a leaf node or bud.

Pruning Plan

Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushier growth, and remove dead or diseased parts.

Tools

Pruning shears, sharp scissors, disinfectant.

Checklist

Disinfect tools; prune dead or yellowing leaves; shape the plant; remove spent flowers.

Repotting Guide
Best Season

Spring, before the active growing season begins.

Pot Size

Choose a pot 1–2 inches larger in diameter than the current one.

Method

Remove plant gently; trim roots if necessary; place in a new pot with fresh soil; water lightly.

Suggestions

Repot every 1–2 years or when roots outgrow the pot; beneficial for soil refreshment.

Checklist

Prepare new pot with drainage holes; trim root bound plants; use fresh potting mix; 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 in the morning to reduce evaporation.

Pro Tip: Use a watering can with a narrow spout to direct water to the roots without disturbing the soil surface.
Watering Schedule Tips

Water deeply once the top inch of soil feels dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.

Soil Improvement

Add perlite or sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure good aeration.

Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues

Wilting, yellowing leaves, stunted growth, or bud drop in extreme conditions.

Cold Stress

Slows growth, may cause leaf drop, and can lead to frost damage if temperatures drop below 32°F (0°C).

Solution: Move to a warmer location; cover with a frost cloth if outdoors; avoid overwatering in cold conditions.

Hot Stress

Leaves may scorch, wilt, or drop; flowering may be reduced in excessive heat.

Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity; water more frequently but avoid waterlogging.

Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist

Check fertilizer label; dilute correctly; apply during active growth; avoid winter feeding.

Fertilizing Method

Use a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season; avoid fertilizing in winter.

Common Problems & Solutions

Yellowing of leaves in Trifolium aureum can indicate nutrient deficiencies, such as nitrogen or iron, or may be a symptom of water stress, pest infestation, or disease.

Wilting in Trifolium aureum is typically a sign of water stress, either due to insufficient watering or root damage from pests or diseases, leading to reduced water uptake.

Leaf spots on Trifolium aureum are commonly caused by fungal or bacterial pathogens, resulting in discolored, necrotic areas on the leaves that can lead to defoliation if severe.

Rotting in Trifolium aureum is often caused by fungal infections or bacterial pathogens, particularly in moist conditions, leading to decay of roots, stems, or leaves.

Toxicity Warning

Cats
Non-toxic

Trifolium aureum is not considered toxic to cats. No toxic effects have been documented in felines after ingestion of this plant.

⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

While non-toxic, it is always advisable to prevent pets from consuming unfamiliar plants.
Dogs
Non-toxic

Trifolium aureum is not known to be toxic to dogs. There are no reported cases of adverse effects in canines after ingestion of this plant.

⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Monitor pets for any unusual behavior after ingestion, but the plant is generally considered safe for dogs.
Humans
Non-toxic

Trifolium aureum, commonly known as large hop clover, is generally considered non-toxic to humans. It has not been documented to cause significant adverse effects when ingested in typical amounts.

⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

While non-toxic, excessive consumption of any plant material is not recommended without proper botanical consultation.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Is Trifolium aureum 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 easy is it to care for?

A: It is easy to care for with low maintenance requirements.

Quick Reference
Family: Fabaceae
Care: easy
Light: full sun to partial shade
Water: every 7–10 days during activ
Suitable For: ["beginners","busy people (low maintenance)","wildlife supporters (attracts bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Get Expert Care Tips

Download the Plantious app for personalized care reminders and plant identification!

Google Play App Store
Share This Plant

Related Plants

Mangium
View
Yellow Lupine
View
Camel Thorn
View
Rose Clover
View