PlantFun
Plant Needs
Sunlight
Full sun to partial shade; tolerates cool, open meadow conditions; avoid prolonged extreme shade
Watering
Water deeply when top 2 cm of soil is dry; avoid overwatering to prevent root rot in heavy clay soils
Temperature
Hardy to light frosts; thrives in 10–20°C; avoid extreme summer heat above 28°C which may cause premature senescence
Characteristics
- Leaf: Trifoliate, oval leaflets with faint white chevrons; soft, hairy texture
- Flower: Dense, cylindrical crimson to rose-pink flower heads atop slender stems
- Stem: Erect, branching, covered in fine hairs
Care Guide
Watering
Keep soil consistently moist during active growth and flowering
Fertilization
No regular fertilization needed; fixes atmospheric nitrogen via root nodules. Avoid high-nitrogen fertilizers which may reduce nitrogen-fixing efficiency
Eggshell powder topdress：Sprinkle finely ground, oven-dried eggshells around plant bases to boost soil calcium; avoid direct contact with tender stems to prevent irritationPruning
- Trim spent flower heads to prevent unwanted self-seeding in managed gardens
- Mow or cut back to 5 cm after flowering for cover crop soil incorporation
- Remove damaged or yellowing foliage to improve airflow and reduce disease risk
Toxicity
Warning: this plant may be toxic.
Pets & Humans
Pets: ASPCA: Non-toxic to cats; no known adverse effects from ingestion
Humans: Non-toxic to humans; safe for consumption in small quantities as forage or garnish
Garden Uses & Culture
Culture: N/A
Usage: Cover crop to improve soil fertility, forage for livestock, pollinator habitat for bees and butterflies
