Ornamental Clover Trifolium rubens 'Red Feathers'
ABOUT
Red Feather Clover, commonly known as Red Feathers, is a visually striking plant primarily recognized for its lush, feathery flower spikes. The plant exhibits a clumping habit, creating a strong, bushy presence in a garden setting. The foliage of Red Feathers is composed of trifoliate (three-part) leaves, which have a rich green color and appear slightly glossy, contributing to the overall textured appearance of the plant. The most notable feature of Red Feathers is its vibrant flower heads, which are elongated, cone-shaped, and resemble plumes or feathery tufts. These flowers possess a deep red to magenta coloring, giving the plant its common name and making it a standout selection for adding vivid color to gardens. The blossoms are densely packed, creating an effect of a soft, fluffy spike that attracts both visual interest and various pollinators to the garden. The contrast between the green foliage and the red-to-magenta blooms provides a delightful color palette that can complement a wide range of other plants and flowers. It is often planted for its ornamental value and its ability to attract bees and butterflies, enhancing the biodiversity of a garden space. Despite its lush appearance, Red Feather Clover maintains a charm that can integrate well within both formal garden designs and more naturalized, wildflower settings.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Fabaceae
Synonyms
Red Feather Clover, Ornamental Clover, Red Trefoil
Common names
Trifolium rubens.
ToxicityTo humans
The plant commonly known as Red Feather Clover is not known to be toxic to humans. Generally, clovers are not considered poisonous, but as with any plant, individual sensitivity varies. Consuming this plant is not likely to result in toxicity or serious consequences. However, it is always advisable to avoid ingesting plants that are not confirmed to be safe or are not intended for human consumption.
To pets
Red Feather Clover is not typically toxic to pets. It is generally considered safe for animals such as dogs and cats, and they may even nibble on it without ill effects. However, it's always prudent to monitor your pets and prevent them from eating large amounts of any plant, as this can sometimes lead to gastrointestinal upset or more serious issues if the plant is contaminated with pesticides or other chemicals.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Red
Height
1-2 feet (30-60 cm)
Spread
1-2 feet (30-60 cm)
Plant type
Herb
Hardiness zones
4-8
Native area
Europe
Benefits
General Benefits- Attracts Pollinators: Trifolium rubens 'Red Feathers' attracts bees and butterflies, which are beneficial for pollinating garden plants.
- Drought Tolerant: Once established, it has good resistance to drought, requiring less water compared to other plants.
- Low Maintenance: Requires minimal care once it's established, making it suitable for gardeners of all levels.
- Nitrogen Fixation: As a legume, it improves soil fertility by fixing nitrogen, which is beneficial for surrounding plants.
- Ornamental Appeal: With its striking red flowers, it adds aesthetic value to gardens and landscapes.
- Deer Resistant: Its foliage and flowers are typically resistant to grazing by deer.
- Soil Erosion Control: It can help prevent soil erosion due to its root system stabilizing the soil.
- Adaptability: It can thrive in a variety of soil types, from clay to sandy soils.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- As a natural dye: The flowers of the Red Feathers can be used to produce a natural red dye for coloring fabrics or other materials.
- Ink production: The pigments extracted from Red Feathers may be used for making botanical inks for arts and crafts.
- Eco-friendly confetti: Dried petals of Red Feathers can serve as biodegradable confetti for outdoor celebrations.
- Floral arrangements: Fresh or dried, Red Feathers can add a dramatic touch to bouquets and floral displays with their vibrant color.
- Culinary garnish: Edible flowers of the Red Feathers can be used to garnish desserts and cocktails for an elegant touch.
- Creative photography: The striking appearance of Red Feathers makes it a popular choice for photographers looking to add a splash of color to their compositions.
- Plant dye for playdough: A safe, non-toxic dye for homemade playdough can be created from Red Feathers for crafting with children.
- Crafting potpourri: Dried Red Feathers can be included in potpourri mixtures to add color and a mild natural fragrance to a room.
- Educational use: Red Feathers can be utilized in plant biology and botany lessons to study plant structure and pollination.
- Soil erosion control: When planted in large numbers, Red Feathers can help prevent soil erosion due to its root structure.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Red Clover is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Red Clover is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Luck: The Trifolium, or clover, is traditionally associated with good luck, especially if a four-leaf clover is found. While 'Red Feathers' has many leaves, the symbolism of luck extends to all clover species.
- Prosperity: Clovers are often considered symbols of prosperity and wealth, with their prolific growth habit symbolizing an abundance of resources.
- Protection: In some folklore, clovers are believed to ward off evil spirits and negative energies, offering protection to those who possess them.
- Fertility: The lush greenery and rapid spread of clover can symbolize fertility and the nurturing of new life in various cultures.
- Unity: The three leaves of a typical clover are sometimes interpreted as a symbol of unity and togetherness, representing the interconnectedness of all things.
WaterOrnamental Clover typically requires regular watering to maintain even soil moisture, especially during the growing season. Water thoroughly and deeply enough so that water reaches the roots, which usually means applying about 1 inch of water once a week. In hotter, drier conditions, it may need water twice a week, while in cooler, wetter climates, once every two weeks may suffice. Avoid overwatering, as this plant doesn't like soggy soil. Always check the top inch of soil for moisture content before watering; if it feels dry, it's time to water again.
LightOrnamental Clover does best in full sun to partial shade. An ideal spot would receive at least six hours of sunlight a day, but it can also tolerate some shade, especially in the afternoon. Avoid deep shade locations, as this may cause the plant to grow leggy and reduce flower production.
TemperatureOrnamental Clover thrives in a temperate range and can withstand some cold, but extreme temperatures on either end of the spectrum can be harmful. It performs best when the temperature is consistently between 60°F and 75°F. It can survive minimum temperatures down to around 20°F and maximum temperatures up to approximately 80°F, though extended periods at these extremes are not ideal.
PruningOrnamental Clover should be pruned to maintain its shape and promote denser foliage. Prune in the early spring before new growth begins, cutting back the old foliage to encourage fresh, new stems. Deadheading, or removing spent flowers, can be done as needed throughout the season to encourage new blooms. There's typically no need for heavy pruning; just a light trim to shape the plant and keep it tidy.
CleaningAs needed
SoilOrnamental Clover thrives in well-drained soil with good fertility and a neutral to slightly acidic pH, between 6.0 and 7.0. A mix with equal parts garden soil, compost, and perlite can provide the right balance of nutrients, drainage, and aeration.
RepottingOrnamental Clover typically does not require frequent repotting; every 2-3 years is sufficient, or when it outgrows its current container, to refresh the soil and encourage continued growth.
Humidity & MistingOrnamental Clover prefers moderate humidity levels; there is no need for high humidity, making it adaptable to average ambient conditions in most homes.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place in bright, indirect light and maintain consistent moisture.
Outdoor
Full sun to partial shade, protect from harsh afternoon light.
Hardiness zone
4-8 USDA
Life cycleTrifolium rubens, commonly known as Ornamental clover or Red Feather Clover, begins its life cycle with germination, where seeds sprout in early spring, given proper moisture and temperature conditions. Following germination, seedlings establish a root system and grow into vegetative plants, developing distinctive trifoliate leaves and stems. In late spring to early summer, the vegetative phase progresses into the flowering stage, where Red Feather Clover produces dense, feather-like crimson flower heads that attract pollinators such as bees. After pollination occurs, the plant forms seed pods that mature by late summer, containing seeds that will disperse to give rise to new plants. With the onset of autumn, Ornamental clover plants begin to senesce, dying back with the first frosts, although the roots can survive to regenerate the next season if the plant is perennial in its growing zone. Winter acts as a dormant period for the clover, with regeneration or reseeding occurring when favorable conditions return in spring.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-Early Summer
The Red Feather Clover, or Trifolium rubens 'Red Feathers', is commonly propagated by seed. Sowing seeds is best done in early spring or autumn by spreading the seeds on a well-prepared soil bed and lightly covering them with soil. The seeds should be kept moist until germination, which typically occurs within two to three weeks, depending on the temperature and soil moisture levels. Care should be taken not to sow the seeds too deeply, as this could impede their ability to germinate effectively. Once the seedlings have established, they can be thinned out or transplanted to their desired location in the garden, ensuring they have enough space to grow and develop.
