Trifolium scabrum
Trifolium scabrum · Fabaceae
The gardener's calendar
Ideal time to plant trifolium scabrum: set it out when the soil is neither frozen nor waterlogged, and water generously as it establishes.
ID card
- Foliage
- Deciduous, typical trifoliate
- Flowering
- Spring to summer (April-July)
- Adult size
- 15-30 cm in height
- Growth
- Fast
- Hardiness
- Very hardy, tolerates cold
- Origin
- Mediterranean regions and South-West Asia
- Soil type
- Well-drained soils, even chalky and poor
Care
Light Exposure
Rough clover prefers full sun to express its full flowering potential. However, it tolerates light partial shade. Avoid dense shade which slows growth and reduces flower density.
Watering
Water regularly during the growing period, keeping the soil moist but not waterlogged. In summer, reduce watering; this plant tolerates drought well once established thanks to its taproot system.
Soil and Preparation
Rough clover adapts to almost all well-drained soils, even poor or chalky ones. Avoid waterlogging and compacted soil. A light compost amendment at planting time promotes rooting.
Pruning
Little pruning is necessary. Remove spent flowers to extend flowering and limit self-seeding if desired. Light mechanical weeding keeps the bed clean.
Fertilizing
Little demanding in nutrients, rough clover benefits from natural humus inputs. In poor soil, a light compost application in spring is sufficient. Avoid excess nitrogen which would favor foliage at the expense of flowering.
Health and Diseases
Very resilient, this species is rarely affected by disease or pests. Stagnant moisture can promote root rot; improve drainage if necessary. Good air circulation prevents fungal problems.
Did you know?
Rough clover, like all clovers, maintains a fascinating symbiotic relationship with bacteria of the Rhizobium genus: these bacteria convert atmospheric nitrogen into assimilable compounds, naturally enriching the soil. This is why farmers have integrated legumes as green manure since ancient times to regenerate exhausted soils.
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.
Add this plant to my garden →Plants from the same family
- Chinese wisteriaWisteria sinensis
- Common broomCytisus scoparius
- Black locustRobinia pseudoacacia
- Common PeaLathyrus oleraceus
- Honey locustGleditsia triacanthos
- Hairy greenweedGenista pilosa
Tips generated and checked by Viridia — adapt them to your local climate.