Hairy Clover

trifolium scabrum

Also known as: ["Hairy Clover","Scabrous Clover"]

Family: Fabaceae Genus: Trifolium Category: Flowers

Overview

A small, annual clover species with hairy leaves and small, spherical flower heads.

Benefits & Perks

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

Botanical Classification

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

Plant Characteristics

Basic Information
  • Category: Flowers
  • Suitable Location: garden bed or container in a location with good air circulation
  • Suitable For:
    Beginners Wildlife Supporters
  • Is Weed: No
  • Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
  • Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–30°C"}
  • Hardiness: {"zones":"7–10"}
  • Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
  • Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
  • Soil Type: Well-draining, loamy soil with organic matter; can tolerate poor soils.
Maintenance Level
  • Maintenance Level: low
  • Toughness Level: moderate
  • Pruning Frequency: Light pruning every 2–3 months; major pruning annually after flowering.
  • Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of growth for major pruning.
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 or drainage issues.

Care Requirements

Care Difficulty
easy

moderate

Sunlight

full sun to partial shade

Rotate plant for even light exposure; use shade cloth in extreme heat; monitor for sunburn.

Watering

every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter

Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure soil dries between waterings; avoid overwatering.

Soil

well-draining, loamy soil with moderate organic content

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

Use a mix of potting soil and perlite; avoid heavy clay soils; check drainage before planting.

Temperature

Prefers moderate temperatures, 60–75°F (15–24°C); tolerates cooler conditions but not frost.

Avoid sudden temperature changes; protect from drafts; maintain consistent warmth.

Fertilizing

every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer

Apply fertilizer to moist soil; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; reduce frequency in dormant periods.

Propagation

Methods

Stem cuttings or division; stem cuttings are more common for home growers.

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.

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 use water propagation for cuttings.

Hormone

Rooting hormone is optional but recommended for faster root development.

Timeline

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

Tools Needed

Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, well-draining medium.

Quick Tips

Use clean tools to prevent disease; maintain humidity with a plastic bag; avoid direct sunlight.

Pruning & Repotting

Pruning Guide
Method

Pinch back tips for bushier growth; 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, sterilizing solution, gloves.

Checklist

Sterilize tools; prune dead or yellowing leaves; shape the plant; clean up debris.

Repotting Guide
Best Season

Spring, before the active growing season begins.

Pot Size

Increase pot size by 1–2 inches in diameter; ensure good drainage.

Method

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

Suggestions

Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for growth and soil freshness.

Checklist

Choose appropriate pot; prepare new soil; handle roots carefully; 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; water in the morning to reduce evaporation.

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

Water deeply once the top inch of soil is 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, leaf discoloration, or stunted growth in extreme heat or cold.

Cold Stress

Slows growth and may cause leaf drop; prolonged cold can damage roots.

Solution: Move to a warmer location; use a heat mat for seedlings; protect with mulch.

Hot Stress

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

Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase watering; use mulch to retain soil moisture.

Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist

Check fertilizer label; dilute properly; apply during active growth; avoid contact with leaves.

Fertilizing Method

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

Common Problems & Solutions

Yellowing leaves in Trifolium scabrum may indicate nutrient deficiencies, such as nitrogen or iron, water stress, or pest infestations like aphids or spider mites, which disrupt nutrient uptake and photosynthesis.

Wilting in Trifolium scabrum is often a sign of water stress, either due to insufficient soil moisture or root damage from pathogens like Fusarium or Pythium, leading to impaired water absorption.

Leaf spots on Trifolium scabrum are commonly caused by fungal pathogens such as Cercospora or Alternaria, resulting in reduced photosynthetic capacity, premature leaf drop, and potential spread to other plants.

Rotting in Trifolium scabrum can occur in roots or stems, typically caused by fungal pathogens like Rhizoctonia or bacterial infections, leading to decay, loss of structural integrity, and plant death.

Toxicity Warning

Cats
Non-toxic

Trifolium scabrum is not considered toxic to cats. It poses no significant risk if ingested or handled by felines.

⚡ Toxic If:

Generally non-toxic

No specific safety precautions are required for cats interacting with this plant.
Dogs
Non-toxic

Trifolium scabrum is not considered toxic to dogs. It poses no significant risk if ingested or handled by canines.

⚡ Toxic If:

Generally non-toxic

No specific safety precautions are required for dogs interacting with this plant.
Humans
Non-toxic

Trifolium scabrum is not considered toxic to humans under normal circumstances. It is a species of clover that is generally safe for consumption or handling.

⚡ Toxic If:

Generally non-toxic

No specific safety precautions are required for handling or consuming this plant.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Is Trifolium scabrum toxic to pets?

A: No, it is non-toxic to dogs and cats.

Q: What are the common uses of Hairy Clover?

A: It is primarily used as forage for livestock and as a soil nitrogen fixer.

Q: How does Trifolium scabrum attract wildlife?

A: Its flowers are attractive to bees and other pollinators.

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