Low Hop Clover (Trifolium campestre)

Low Hop Clover

Trifolium campestre

It carpets fields with tiny yellow blooms, a quiet pollinator haven. Annual herbaceous wildflower; common names: low hop clover, field clover.

Full sun
1–2/week
Beginner
🌱

Plant Needs

☀️
Sunlight Full sun to partial shade; tolerates dry, nutrient-poor soils
💧
Watering Water deeply only during prolonged dry spells; drought-tolerant once established
🌡️
Temperature Hardy to -15°C; withstands hot summer temperatures up to 35°C
🔍

Characteristics

  • Leaf: Trifoliate, oval leaflets with tiny marginal teeth; hairless or sparsely hairy
  • Flower: Dense, yellow, hop-like spherical heads; blooms fade to brown as seeds mature
  • Stem: Slender, prostrate to ascending stems with free branching
🛠️

Care Guide

Watering

Water occasionally during extended dry periods; avoid overwatering to prevent root rot

Fertilization

No regular fertilization required; a light top-dressing of compost can be applied in early spring. Avoid high-nitrogen fertilizers which can reduce flowering

Composted eggshell powder:Sprinkle a thin layer around plant bases in early spring; avoid direct contact with foliage to prevent burning
Pruning
  • Mow or trim after flowering to encourage self-seeding and prevent excessive spread
  • Remove dead foliage in late autumn to reduce overwintering pest habitat
  • Thin dense patches to improve airflow and reduce fungal disease risk
⚠️

Toxicity

Warning: this plant may be toxic.

Pets & Humans

Pets: ASPCA: Non-toxic to cats

Humans: No known toxic effects on humans

📖

Garden Uses & Culture

Culture: N/A

Usage: Pollinator habitat for bees and butterflies; low-maintenance ground cover; forage for livestock