Like the dandelion, some people consider red clover or Trifolium pretenseis to be a weed because they show up uninvited in large numbers on lawns everywhere.

Their growth is fast and furious! Red clovers flower within 65 days of planting and will continue to flower every 30-35 days after harvest. Plus, these wildflowers will grow in any soil condition and climate.

This short-lived perennial belongs in the legume family and can be found growing in the wild all over North America, Europe, Australia and northern Africa.  The three oval-shaped leaflets and the pink or purple flower heads are identifying characteristics of the red clover.

Because the red clover can be invasive, most people consider it to be a weed- one that should be pulled out. However, the red clover is actually an important part of our environment and there are so many uses for them. So before you start killing them, consider what the red clover can do for you and the environment.

Uses

• Red clover can be used as a cover crop or ground cover in garden beds; it provides nitrogen to the soil, helping other plants to grow and thrive.
• For centuries, red clover has been used as food for livestock, such as cattle, goats, sheep, horses and pigs.
• It is a source of food for bees. Bees visit red clover throughout the summer and fall to collect nectar. Clover honey is one of the most common types of honey available.
• It is a source of food for birds, squirrels, and other small mammals.
• People can also eat this plant.  Red clover is an edible plant with a slightly sweet taste and is a source of calcium, magnesium, potassium, and vitamin C.
• Dried flowers are used to make tea.
• Red clover is used in traditional herbal medicine; it is used to treat PMS, hot flashes, high cholesterol, respiratory problems and skin inflammations like eczema.

As you can see, there are so many uses for red clover. So I say, c’mon over, red clover! I welcome you with open arms.

Related articles

• Eating my Yard – Clover Tea (postalice.wordpress.com)