Stipule Clover

trifolium striatum

Also known as: ["Stipule Clover","Striped Clover"]

Family: Fabaceae Genus: Trifolium Category: Flowers

Overview

A small, low-growing perennial clover species with distinctive stipules and small, white to pale pink flowers.

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 striatum

Plant Characteristics

Basic Information
  • Category: Flowers
  • Suitable Location: outdoor garden bed in a sunny area
  • Suitable For:
    Wildlife Supporters Outdoor Landscapers Beginners
  • Is Weed: No
  • Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
  • Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–30°C"}
  • Hardiness: {"zones":"6–9"}
  • Misting: rarely required
  • Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
  • Soil Type: Well-draining, loamy soil with added organic matter; can tolerate poor soils.
Maintenance Level
  • Maintenance Level: low
  • Toughness Level: moderate
  • Pruning Frequency: 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 midday sun; adjust placement based on seasonal light changes.

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 placing in drafty areas.

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-draining, sandy loam with moderate organic matter

pH: Slightly acidic to neutral, pH 6.0–7.0.

Avoid heavy clay soils; ensure good drainage; amend with organic matter for fertility.

Temperature

Prefers cool to moderate temperatures, 60–75°F (15–24°C); tolerates cooler nights but avoids extreme heat.

Avoid sudden temperature fluctuations; protect from frost; ensure good air circulation.

Fertilizing

every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer

Apply fertilizer to moist soil to prevent root burn; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; stop fertilizing before winter dormancy.

Propagation

Methods

Seed propagation is most common; stem cuttings can also be used for some varieties.

Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
  1. Prepare medium.
  2. Sow seeds or take cuttings.
  3. Provide warmth and humidity.
  4. Transplant once established.

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 seed starting mix or a mix of peat and perlite.

Hormone

Not typically required for seeds; rooting hormone may aid stem cuttings.

Timeline

Seeds may germinate in 2–4 weeks; stem cuttings root in 3–6 weeks.

Tools Needed

Seed trays, rooting hormone, misting spray bottle, heat mat.

Quick Tips

Use fresh seeds for best germination; maintain consistent moisture; provide bottom heat for faster rooting.

Pruning & Repotting

Pruning Guide
Method

Pinch back tips or shear lightly; remove dead or damaged stems as needed.

Pruning Plan

Light pruning to maintain shape and encourage bushier growth; remove spent flowers to promote continuous blooming.

Tools

Pruning shears, sharp scissors, gloves.

Checklist

Clean tools; prune dead/damaged growth; shape plant; remove spent flowers.

Repotting Guide
Best Season

Early spring before new growth begins.

Pot Size

Increase pot size by 1–2 inches in diameter; avoid oversized pots.

Method

Remove plant gently; trim roots if necessary; repot in fresh, well-draining soil; ensure good drainage.

Suggestions

Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the container; beneficial for younger plants to encourage growth.

Checklist

Prepare new pot; trim roots; add fresh soil; water lightly; place in appropriate light.

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.

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 compost or well-rotted manure for fertility; mix in perlite or sand for drainage; ensure aeration with organic matter.

Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues

Wilting, yellowing leaves, or stunted growth in excessive heat; leaf drop or browning in cold stress.

Cold Stress

Slows growth, may cause leaf discoloration, and increases susceptibility to fungal diseases in prolonged cold.

Solution: Move to a warmer location; provide a protective mulch layer; 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 watering frequency; use mulch to retain soil moisture.

Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist

Check fertilizer type; dilute correctly; apply to moist soil; avoid foliage contact.

Fertilizing Method

Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength; fertilize every 4–6 weeks during the growing season (spring to early fall); avoid fertilizing in winter.

Common Problems & Solutions

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

Wilting in Trifolium striatum is typically caused by water stress, either due to insufficient watering or root damage from pests or pathogens, leading to reduced water uptake.

Leaf spots on Trifolium striatum may be caused by fungal or bacterial pathogens, leading to reduced photosynthetic efficiency and potential leaf loss if severe.

Rotting, particularly root or stem rot, in Trifolium striatum is often associated with overwatering or poorly drained soil, creating anaerobic conditions that favor fungal pathogens.

Toxicity Warning

Cats
Non-toxic

Trifolium striatum is not considered toxic to cats. It is not known to cause adverse effects when ingested or handled by cats.

⚡ Toxic If:

Generally non-toxic

No specific safety precautions are necessary for cats interacting with Trifolium striatum.
Dogs
Non-toxic

Trifolium striatum is not considered toxic to dogs. It is not known to cause adverse effects when ingested or handled by dogs.

⚡ Toxic If:

Generally non-toxic

No specific safety precautions are necessary for dogs interacting with Trifolium striatum.
Humans
Non-toxic

Trifolium striatum is not considered toxic to humans under normal circumstances. It is commonly found in pastures and is generally safe for consumption.

⚡ Toxic If:

Generally non-toxic

No specific safety precautions are necessary for handling or consumption of Trifolium striatum.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Is Trifolium striatum 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
Suitable For: ["wildlife supporters (attracts bees, butterflies, birds)","outdoor landscapers","beginners"]
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