Brown Clover

(Trifolium badium)

Brown Clover (Trifolium badium)

/

return to results
Previous Plant Next Plant

/

Trifolium badium image
scroll forward scroll backward
scroll forward scroll backward
Estimated Native Range
Species Map Help

Summary

Trifolium badium, commonly known as Brown Clover or Alpine Clover, is a perennial herb that thrives in the alpine and subalpine zones of Europe, including the Pyrenees, the Alps and the Carpathians. It is adapted to meadows, grassy slopes, and rocky areas, often at elevations between 1,000 and 2,400 meters. This clover typically reaches a height and width of 0.5-1.5 feet (0.15-0.5 meters), forming a compact clump. The plant is characterized by its trifoliate leaves and small, globular flower heads that are brownish-purple, blooming in the summer and providing a unique color among clovers.

Brown Clover is valued for its nitrogen-fixing ability, which enriches the soil and supports surrounding plant life. It is used in wildflower meadows, as a ground cover in rock gardens, and for erosion control on slopes due to its mat-forming habit. Alpine Clover is relatively low maintenance, requiring medium amounts of water and thriving in well-drained loam soils. It prefers full sun to part shade, which makes it versatile for various garden settings. While not commonly affected by diseases, it can suffer from root rot if overwatered or planted in poorly draining soils.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

  • Plant Type: Herb
  • Height: 0.5-1.5 feet
  • Width: 0.5-1.5 feet
  • Growth Rate: Moderate
  • Flower Color: Brown
  • Flowering Season: Summer
  • Leaf Retention: Deciduous

Growth Requirements

  • Sun: Full Sun, Part Shade
  • Water: Medium
  • Drainage: Medium

Common Uses

Bee Garden, Butterfly Garden, Low Maintenance

Natural Habitat

the alpine and subalpine zones of Europe, including the Pyrenees, the Alps and the Carpathians

Other Names

Common Names: Alpine Clover

Scientific Names: , Trifolium badium, Amarenus badius, Amarenus badius, Chrysaspis badia, Trifolium badium subsp. rytidosemium, Trifolium spadiceum var. badium,

GBIF Accepted Name: