Scaly Clover

trifolium squamosum

Also known as: ["Scaly Clover"]

Family: Fabaceae Genus: Trifolium Category: Flowers

Overview

A species of clover native to parts of Europe, characterized by its scalloped leaflets and small, white flowers.

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 squamosum

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":"6–9"}
  • Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
  • Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
  • Soil Type: Well-draining, loamy soil with added organic matter.
Maintenance Level
  • Maintenance Level: low
  • Toughness Level: moderate
  • Pruning Frequency: Annually in early spring or after flowering.
  • Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of old growth to rejuvenate the plant.
Care Details

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

Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to direct sun; protect from harsh midday sun; move indoors during extreme heat or cold.

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).

Ensure pots have drainage holes; avoid heavy clay soils; test pH periodically.

Temperature

Prefers 60–75°F (15–24°C); tolerates mild fluctuations but avoids extremes.

Avoid sudden temperature changes; protect from frost; maintain moderate indoor temps.

Fertilizing

every 4–6 weeks during growing season, none in winter

Fertilize only when actively growing; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; use organic options for gentle feeding.

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. Maintain humidity.

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

Environment

High humidity (70–80%), indirect light, and warm temperatures (65–75°F).

Medium

Well-draining mix of peat, perlite, and sand.

Hormone

Rooting hormone is recommended for faster root development.

Timeline

Roots develop in 3–4 weeks; new growth appears in 6–8 weeks.

Tools Needed

Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, misting spray bottle.

Quick Tips

Use healthy, non-flowering stems; keep soil consistently moist; provide bottom heat for faster rooting.

Pruning & Repotting

Pruning Guide
Method

Pinch back tips for bushier growth; cut stems just above a leaf node.

Pruning Plan

Remove dead or leggy stems to encourage bushier growth and better flowering.

Tools

Clean pruning shears, gloves.

Checklist

Disinfect tools; prune dead/damaged stems; shape for airflow; 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 drainage holes.

Method

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

Suggestions

Repot every 2–3 years or when roots outgrow the pot; refresh soil to maintain vigor.

Checklist

Check root bound status; prepare new pot; trim roots; add fresh soil; water lightly.

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 and fungal risk.

Pro Tip: Use a watering can with a narrow spout to direct water precisely to the root zone.
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; use mulch to retain moisture.

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 prolonged cold.

Solution: Move to a warmer location; insulate pots; avoid cold drafts; reduce watering.

Hot Stress

Leaf scorch, wilting, and reduced flowering 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 soil; avoid foliage contact.

Fertilizing Method

Use 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 squamosum can indicate nutrient deficiencies, overwatering, or pest infestations, leading to reduced photosynthetic efficiency and overall plant vigor.

Wilting in Trifolium squamosum is often a sign of water stress, either due to drought or root damage, which can impair nutrient uptake and lead to plant decline.

Leaf spots on Trifolium squamosum are commonly caused by fungal or bacterial infections, which can reduce photosynthetic capacity and, if severe, lead to defoliation.

Rotting, particularly root or stem rot, in Trifolium squamosum is typically caused by fungal pathogens or excessive moisture, leading to decay of plant tissues and potential death of the plant.

Toxicity Warning

Cats
Non-toxic

Trifolium squamosum is not known to be toxic to cats. There are no documented cases of toxicity in felines from exposure to this plant.

⚡ Toxic If:

Generally non-toxic

Cats should not consume large quantities of any plant material, but this species is not considered harmful.
Dogs
Non-toxic

Trifolium squamosum is not known to be toxic to dogs. There are no documented cases of toxicity in canines from exposure to this plant.

⚡ Toxic If:

Generally non-toxic

Dogs should not consume large quantities of any plant material, but this species is not considered harmful.
Humans
Non-toxic

Trifolium squamosum, commonly known as scabious clover, is not considered toxic to humans under normal circumstances. It is not known to produce any significant toxic compounds that would cause adverse effects upon ingestion or contact.

⚡ Toxic If:

Generally non-toxic

While generally safe, individuals with specific allergies or sensitivities should exercise caution when handling or consuming any plant material.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Is Trifolium squamosum 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 difficult is it to care for?

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

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)"]
Get Expert Care Tips

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

Google Play App Store
Share This Plant

Related Plants

Cicer Milk-vetch
View
Stinking Toe, Jatoba, Courbaril
View
Surinam Mimosa
View
Jamaica Redwood, False Mahogany
View