Also known as Foxtail Clover · Long-Spiked Trefoil
Red Trefoil (Trifolium rubens) is a striking perennial clover native to North America, featuring dense spikes of vibrant red-pink flowers, ideal for attracting pollinator
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Full Sun
100% intensity
Prefers full sun to partial shade for optimal flowering. Protect from intense afternoon sun in very hot climates.
Moderate
50% intensity
Keep soil consistently moist, allowing the top layer to dry slightly between waterings. Avoid waterlogged conditions.
Well-drained
50% intensity
Moderate
50% intensity
Prefers average room temperatures between 18-24°C. Can tolerate cooler temperatures in winter, but protect from frost.
Low
25% intensity
Requires minimal fertilization due to nitrogen-fixing capabilities. A light balanced fertilizer in spring is sufficient.
Safety information from plant toxicity data
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Toxic for humans | No 0/5 intensity |
| Toxic for pets | No 0/5 intensity |
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Trifolium rubens prefers consistently moist soil but can tolerate short periods of dryness once established. Water deeply when the top 2-3 cm of soil feels dry. Avoid waterlogging, which can lead to root rot.
Reduce watering slightly during winter dormancy.
Pruning is typically minimal for Trifolium rubens. Deadheading spent flower stalks can encourage reblooming and maintain a tidy appearance.
After flowering, you can cut back the entire plant to the ground to promote a fresh flush of growth, especially if it appears leggy.
Trifolium rubens can be propagated by seeds, which germinate readily when sown in spring or fall. It can also be propagated by division of established clumps in early spring.
Ensure seeds are fresh for best germination rates.
Repotting is generally not necessary for Trifolium rubens, as it is often grown as a perennial groundcover or in established garden beds. If grown in containers, repot every 2-3 years in spring to refresh the soil and provide more space if the plant becomes root-bound.
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Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of Red Trefoil (Trifolium rubens)
Where Red Trefoil (Trifolium rubens) is found
Density
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Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Division | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Fabales |
| Family | Fabaceae |
| Genus | Trifolium |
| Species | Trifolium rubens |
Similar in genus Trifolium
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data
