White Clover

(Trifolium repens)

Other Names:
Dutch clover, Ladino clover, or Ladino

Range: Non native


Family:
Fabaceae - Pea or Legume Family

Growth Type:
Herbaceous perennial

Height:
Can grow up to 12 inches tall

Leaves:
Alternate, trifoliate (meaning 3 leaved), elliptical to egg shaped, serrated margins, dark green on top, and pale green underside. The top of the leaves display a characteristic light colored chevron.

Stem/Trunk:
Often branched stems

Root:
In the first year, T. repense has a taproot with fibrous roots. After the first year, the taproot dies off leaving the fibrous mass.

Flower Season:
Summer into Autumn

Flower Appearance:
Typically measuring less than 1 in across, with a whitish colored inflorescence (flower head), sometimes appearing pinkish. While it may appear pink, it will not be as dark in color as T. pratense.

Seed/Fruit:
Dry fruit

Miscellaneous characteristics:
T. repens often forms dense mats

Habitat:
Sunny locations such as lawns, fields, and gardens

Parts Used:
Leaves, flowers

Culinary Uses:
The flowers are a rather tasty addition to salads, or can be eaten raw as a trail nibble. The leaves are high in protein, but when eaten raw, they are not easily digestible by human beings. We can make use of their protein by cooking the leaves for 5-10 minutes. The flowers can also be dried and added to flour, or stored to make an extremely healthful tea.

The following text is meant for informational purposes only. It is not meant to diagnose or treat any illness or injury. Always consult with a physician or other qualified medical care provider concerning the diagnosis and treatment of any illness or injury.

Medicinal Uses:
None known

Medicinal Actions:
N/A