Trifolium alpinum
Trifolium alpinum · Fabaceae
The gardener's calendar
Ideal time to plant trifolium alpinum: set it out when the soil is neither frozen nor waterlogged, and water generously as it establishes.
ID card
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Flowering
- June to August
- Adult size
- 15 to 30 cm in height
- Growth
- Moderate
- Hardiness
- Very hardy (down to -20°C)
- Origin
- European Alps
- Soil type
- Well-drained, poor to moderately fertile
Care
Exposure
Alpine clover prefers sunny to partially shaded locations. In mountains, it thrives on south and west-facing slopes where sunlight is maximal. Excessive shade will slow its growth and reduce flowering.
Soil
This plant appreciates well-drained, rocky or stony soils, typical of alpine meadows. Avoid heavy and compacted soils. No rich amendments are necessary: alpine clover thrives even in poor, mineral soil.
Watering
Once established, alpine clover is very drought-tolerant and requires minimal watering. During its first season, keep the soil slightly moist to encourage rooting. In temperate and mountainous climates, natural rainfall is usually sufficient.
Fertilizing
No fertilizer is necessary. Like all legumes, alpine clover fixes atmospheric nitrogen through its root nodules. Rich fertilizer could actually harm its wild character and reduce flowering.
Pruning and maintenance
This plant requires no regular pruning. Simply clean up dead leaves in autumn. In rockeries or alpine meadows, let it develop naturally to preserve its characteristic spreading habit.
Diseases and pests
Alpine clover is very robust and rarely susceptible to diseases. In overly wet soil, root rot may occur. Ensure excellent drainage therefore. Pests are exceptional on this hardy high-altitude plant.
Did you know?
Alpine clover was once used by alpine herders to stabilize and enrich high-altitude meadows: its nodular roots fix soil nitrogen, naturally fertilizing pastures. Its pink flowers densely grouped in heads are highly melliferous and provide a valuable resource for wild bees in the mountains during summer.
Where to buy it
Plant in spring or early autumn, avoiding spells of intense heat. Pick a plant with healthy foliage and roots that are not exposed. Best time: March, April, May, September.
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Tips generated and checked by Viridia — adapt them to your local climate.