Red Clover

Red Clover Overview

Trifolium pratense is known by the common names Red Clover or Purple Clover, amongst others. It is a herbaceous perennial from the Fabaceae family. Red Clover typically grows to between 30-50cm tall, producing leaves in arrangements of three, termed trifoliate. Flowers are pink-red in colour and produced in rounded clusters, these measure approximately 3cm across. This plant is grown as a forage crop, extensively for pasturage, green manure and hay. It's great for livestock and enriching soil by fixing nitrogen, frequently used in crop rotation. Originating from Europe, Western Asia and northwest Africa, Trifolium pratense is widely naturalised in many other locations, including Australia and both North and South America. Red Clover has many other uses, including extensive use in folk medicine. This species is part of the Royal Horticultural Society “Plants for Pollinators” initiative to showcase plants which support pollinator populations by providing ample amounts of nectar and/ or pollen. A great choice for encouraging pollinating insect wildlife into your garden! This species is part of the Royal Horticultural Society “Plants for Pollinators” initiative to showcase plants which support pollinator populations by providing ample amounts of nectar and/ or pollen. A great choice for encouraging pollinating insect wildlife into your garden!