White Clover

Trifolium repens

Description

White Clover (Trifolium repens) is a perennial plant native to Europe, Asia, and North Africa. It is also known as Dutch clover, Ladino clover, and white sweet clover.

White Clover has a low-growing, mat-forming habit and can reach a height of 8-16 inches. The leaves are trifoliate (arranged in groups of three) and have a characteristic white “V” shape on the upper surface. The flowers are small and white, arranged in spherical heads.

White Clover prefers well-draining soil and full sun, but it can also grow in partial shade. It is tolerant of a wide range of temperatures and is hardy in USDA zones 3-10.

The leaves and flowers of White Clover are edible and can be eaten raw in salads or cooked as a leaf vegetable. The plant can also be used to make tea.

White Clover is often grown as a ground cover or forage crop for livestock. It is valued for its ability to fix nitrogen in the soil, improving soil fertility. It is also attractive to bees and other pollinators. White Clover is often used in lawns as a natural alternative to grass, as it can tolerate frequent mowing and has a low growing habit.