Trifolium spadiceum
Trifolium spadiceum · Fabaceae
The gardener's calendar
Ideal time to plant trifolium spadiceum: set it out when the soil is neither frozen nor waterlogged, and water generously as it establishes.
ID card
- Common name
- Brown clover, Saffron clover
- Family
- Fabaceae (legumes)
- Type
- Annual or biennial herbaceous plant
- Flowering
- June to August, reddish-brown flowers in dense spikes
- Mature size
- 30 to 60 cm tall
- Foliage
- Deciduous, composed of three leaflets
- Hardiness
- Moderate, suited to temperate zones
- Origin
- Europe, mountainous and subalpine regions
Care
Light exposure
Choose a location in full sun to partial shade for optimal flowering. This plant adapts well to open, sunny areas. It tolerates slightly shaded situations but flowering will be reduced.
Soil
Trifolium spadiceum thrives in well-drained, light to moderately rich soils. It tolerates poor and rocky terrain typical of its mountain habitat. Avoid excessive moisture and prolonged waterlogging.
Watering
Water moderately, especially during active growth phase. Once established, this plant is fairly frugal and tolerates relative drought periods. Keep the soil slightly moist during intense heat or marked water deficit.
Fertilizing
No fertilizer is necessary thanks to the ability of Fabaceae to fix atmospheric nitrogen. Poor soil is entirely sufficient. Excessive nitrogen can promote foliage at the expense of flowering.
Pruning and maintenance
No specific pruning is required. Simply remove spent flowers to extend flowering and encourage branching. At the end of the season, the plant can be left in place or removed as needed.
Diseases and pests
Generally very robust, Trifolium spadiceum is rarely affected by disease. Occasionally watch for aphids and spider mites in prolonged dry conditions. Excess moisture can promote root rot.
Did you know?
Trifolium spadiceum is an excellent indicator of mountain meadows, prized by beekeepers for its abundant nectar and particularly melliferous flowers. Its reddish-brown spikes contrast beautifully in wild floral compositions or wildflower meadow sowings, while naturally enriching the soil with bio-available nitrogen.
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.