White Clover (Dutch Clover, Ladino Clover)
Kingdom: Plantae, Division: Magnoliophyta, Class: Magnoliopsida, Order: Fabales, Family: Fabaceae, Genus: Trifolium, Species: Trifolium repens · Fabaceae (Pea or Bean family) · Compound (palmately trifoliate with three leaflets); Deciduous to semi-evergreen
Species
Trifolium repens
Leaf Type
Compound (palmately trifoliate with three leaflets); Deciduous to semi-evergreen
Family
Fabaceae (Pea or Bean family)
Shape
Leaflets are obovate (teardrop-shaped) to heart-shaped (obcordate) with a slight notch at the apex
Size
Leaflets typically measure 0.5 to 1 inch long. The specimen shown is the globose flower head, which is roughly 0.75 inches in diameter.
Margin
Minutely serrulate (finely toothed) along the edges, appearing smooth from a distance
Arrangement
Alternate, usually appearing as a basal rosette from a creeping stolon (stem runner)
Rarity
Very Common; one of the most widely distributed and easily found groundcover plants in the world
Color & Pattern
Bright green leaves often feature a distinct white or light green 'V' mark (watermark). The flower head shown is creamy white, transitionining to tan as it dries.
Venation Pattern
Pinnate within each leaflet; secondary veins are prominent, straight, and extend to the margin
Texture & Surface
Smooth (glabrous) on both the upper and lower surfaces, though the long petioles can be slightly hairy
Description
White clover is a low-growing perennial herb that spreads via stolons. The specimen features a globose flower head (umbel) composed of many small, white, pea-like florets atop a long, leafless stalk (peduncle).
Key Features
Trifoliate leaves with white 'V' marks, flower heads that turn brown and reflex downward as they age, and a creeping growth habit that roots at the nodes.
Habitat
Lawns, meadows, pastures, disturbed sites, and roadsides. Thrives in moist, well-draining soils with full sun to partial shade.
Geographic Range
Native to Europe and Central Asia; widely naturalized across North America, Australia, and New Zealand
Condition Notes
The specimen is a dried, post-anthesis flower head. It shows significant browning and desiccation, typical for a pressed or aged flower sample. Health grade: Fair (senescent).
Interesting Facts
The 'four-leaf clover' is a rare genetic mutation of this specific species. It is also an nitrogen-fixing plant that improves soil quality and is a favorite of honeybees.
Medicinal & Uses
Used as highly nutritious forage for livestock; flowers can be used for herbal teas (decoctions). It is a vital honey plant for commercial beekeeping.
Ecological Role
Primary nectar source for pollinators; fixes atmospheric nitrogen into the soil via symbiotic rhizobia bacteria on its roots.
Similar Species
Trifolium pratense (Red Clover), which is larger, taller, and has pink-purple flowers; and Medicago lupulina (Black Medic), which has yellow flowers.
Foraging Tips
Look in manicured lawns that haven't been treated with herbicides. Flowers are best harvested when fresh and purely white for tea or edible garnishes.
Toxicity Warning
Non-toxic to humans in moderation, though should be avoided in large quantities by those with blood-clotting disorders due to coumarin content. Safe for most grazing animals.