Yellow Clover

trifolium patens

Also known as: ["Yellow Clover","Pale Yellow Clover"]

Family: Fabaceae Genus: Trifolium Category: Flowers

Overview

A low-growing, herbaceous plant with yellow flowers, native to Europe and parts of Asia.

Benefits & Perks

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

Botanical Classification

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

Plant Characteristics

Basic Information
  • Category: Flowers
  • 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":"6–9"}
  • Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
  • Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
  • Soil Type: Well-draining potting mix with added perlite or sand for aeration.
Maintenance Level
  • Maintenance Level: low
  • Toughness Level: moderate
  • Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically every 2–3 months or after flowering.
  • Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; avoid removing more than one-third of the plant at a time.
Care Details

Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily; adjust to partial shade in intense summer sun.

Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Gradually acclimate to stronger light; protect from direct midday sun to prevent scorching; place in a spot with filtered light if outdoors.

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 proper drainage; avoid wetting foliage.

Soil

well-draining, loamy soil with moderate organic content

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

Use a mix with good drainage; avoid heavy clay soils; ensure pots have drainage holes.

Temperature

Prefers 60–75°F (15–24°C); cooler temperatures (50–60°F or 10–15°C) during dormancy.

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

Fertilizing

every 4–6 weeks during growing season

Fertilize in spring and summer only; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; use a balanced NPK formula.

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 moist medium.
  5. Keep humid.

Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.

Environment

Warm, humid environment with indirect light; maintain 70–75°F (21–24°C) and high humidity.

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; keep cuttings out of direct sun; maintain consistent moisture.

Pruning & Repotting

Pruning Guide
Method

Snip stems just above a leaf node or bud; remove spent flowers to encourage reblooming.

Pruning Plan

Remove dead or yellowing foliage to encourage new growth; shape the plant as needed.

Tools

Clean, sharp pruning shears or scissors.

Checklist

Sanitize tools; prune dead or damaged growth; shape lightly; remove spent blooms.

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 any circling roots; place in a new pot with fresh soil; water lightly.

Suggestions

Repot every 1–2 years or when roots outgrow the container; beneficial for fresh soil and root space.

Checklist

Select appropriate pot; prepare new soil mix; 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 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 coarse sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure good aeration.

Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues

Wilting, yellowing leaves, or stunted growth in extreme heat or cold.

Cold Stress

Slows growth, causes leaf drop, and may lead to root damage in freezing temperatures.

Solution: Move to a warmer location; insulate pots; avoid cold drafts; protect from frost.

Hot Stress

Leaves may scorch, wilt, or drop; growth may slow due to excessive heat.

Solution: Provide shade; increase humidity; water more frequently; ensure good air circulation.

Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist

Check growth phase; dilute fertilizer; apply to moist soil; avoid contact with leaves.

Fertilizing Method

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

Common Problems & Solutions

Yellowing leaves in Trifolium patens may indicate nutrient deficiencies, overwatering, or pest infestations, affecting photosynthesis and overall plant health.

Wilting in Trifolium patens can be caused by water stress, root damage, or disease, leading to reduced turgor pressure and potential plant death if not addressed.

Leaf spots on Trifolium patens are typically caused by fungal or bacterial pathogens, leading to reduced photosynthetic efficiency and potential defoliation.

Rotting in Trifolium patens, particularly root or stem rot, is often due to overwatering or fungal infections, causing decay and eventual plant death.

Toxicity Warning

Cats
Non-toxic

Trifolium patens is not toxic to cats. The plant lacks the chemical compounds that are known to be harmful to felines.

🌿 Toxic Parts:
entire plant
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Cats may experience mild gastrointestinal upset if they consume large quantities, but this is not due to toxicity. Observe your pet if they ingest the plant.
Dogs
Non-toxic

Trifolium patens is not considered toxic to dogs. The plant does not contain known toxic compounds that would pose a health risk to canines.

🌿 Toxic Parts:
entire plant
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Dogs may experience mild gastrointestinal upset if they consume large quantities, but this is not due to toxicity. Monitor your pet if they ingest the plant.
Humans
Non-toxic

Trifolium patens, commonly known as pale clover, is generally considered non-toxic to humans. It is a member of the Fabaceae family and is not known to produce any significant toxic compounds that would cause adverse effects in humans.

🌿 Toxic Parts:
entire plant
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

While non-toxic, excessive consumption of any plant material may cause mild gastrointestinal discomfort. It is advisable to consume in moderation.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Is Trifolium patens 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: ["beginners","busy people (low maintenance)","wildlife supporters (attracts bees, butterflies, birds)"]
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