Clover
Trifolium repens
Clovers are small, three-leaflet plants with spherical flower heads. They symbolize good luck, faith, hope, and love, especially the rare four-leaf clover.
Fabaceae (Legume family)
Spring through fall (April-October) with peak in early summer
Symbolism & Meanings
Key Meanings
Perfect For
Color Meanings
Similar flowers: asters and hellebores also share similar meanings.
Cultural Significance
Three-leaf clover (shamrock) is the symbol of Ireland, used by St. Patrick to explain the Trinity. Four-leaf clovers are rare mutations symbolizing exceptional good luck. Each leaf represents faith, hope, love, and luck.Botanical Information
Physical Characteristics
Natural Habitat
Growing Guide
Sunlight
Full sun to partial shade; very adaptable
Water
Moderate water; tolerates both dry and moist conditions
Soil
Various soil types, Well-drained to moist, pH 6.0-7.0
Expert Growing Tips
Extremely low-maintenance once established
Fixes nitrogen in soil, benefiting surrounding plants
Mow or trim back after flowering to maintain appearance
Self-seeds readily and spreads by stolons
Excellent for areas where grass struggles to grow
Uses & Benefits
Ornamental Uses
- Ground cover and lawn alternative
- Wildflower meadows and naturalized areas
- Pollinator gardens and bee forage
- Erosion control on slopes
- Low-maintenance landscape plantings
Traditional Uses
- Traditional use for respiratory ailments in folk medicine
- Red clover used for menopausal symptoms (consult healthcare provider)
- Flowers historically used for coughs and skin conditions
- Rich in isoflavones and other compounds
Disclaimer: Information provided is for educational purposes only. Consult healthcare professionals before using any plant medicinally.
Further Reading
Frequently Asked Questions about the Clover
What does clover symbolize?
Clover symbolizes good luck, faith, hope, and love. The three-leaf shamrock represents the Trinity, while four-leaf clovers are rare symbols of exceptional good fortune.
What's the difference between clover and shamrock?
Shamrock specifically refers to the three-leaflet clover used as Ireland's national symbol. It's typically white clover (Trifolium repens) or other small clover species.
How rare are four-leaf clovers?
Four-leaf clovers are genetic mutations occurring in about 1 in 5,000 to 1 in 10,000 three-leaf clovers, making them genuinely rare finds.
Is clover good for lawns?
Yes, clover makes an excellent low-maintenance lawn alternative. It stays green, requires no fertilizer, fixes nitrogen, and provides nectar for pollinators.
Do clovers attract bees?
Absolutely! Clover flowers are excellent sources of nectar and pollen for bees and other beneficial pollinators throughout the growing season.
Available Colors
Quick Facts
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