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Herbaceous Perennial

Trifolium pratense
  • RHS Plants for pollinators

red clover

A red clover that reaches 30-50cm in height and bears trifoliate leaves and rounded clusters of pinkish-red flowers 2-3cm across from May to September. Traditionally an element of hay meadows where it fixes nitrogen in its roots. A great source of nectar, especially for bees

Other common names
bee bread
broad-leaved clover
see moreclover grass
common clover
cow grass
marl grass
pinkies
purple clover
purplewort
suckles
sugar plum
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Size
Ultimate height
0.1–0.5 metres
Time to ultimate height
2–5 years
Ultimate spread
0.1–0.5 metres
Growing conditions
Clay
Loam
Moisture
Moist but well–drained, Well–drained
pH
Acid
Colour & scent
StemFlowerFoliageFruit
Spring Pink Green
Summer Pink Green
Autumn Green
Winter
Position
  • Full sun
Aspect

East–facing or South–facing or West–facing

Exposure
Sheltered
Hardiness
H7
Botanical details
Family
Fabaceae
Native to GB / Ireland
Yes
Foliage
Deciduous
Habit
Bushy
Genus

Trifolium are erect or creeping annuals, biennials and herbaceous perennials with trefoil leaves and small, pea-like flowers usually in clusters or short spikes

Name status

Correct

Plant range
Europe, Asia, N Africa

How to grow

Cultivation

Prefers a sunny site and a slightly acid soil with low levels of nitrogenl (ie un-manured ground). Naturally occurs in grassland

Propagation

Propagate by seed

Suggested planting locations and garden types
  • Wildflower meadow
Pruning

No pruning required

Pests

Generally pest-free

Diseases

Generally disease-free

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