Hop Trefoil

(Trifolium campestre)

Hop Trefoil (Trifolium campestre)

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Estimated Native Range
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Summary

Trifolium campestre, commonly known as hop trefoil, field clover, or low hop clover, is an herbaceous annual plant native to Europe and western Asia, specifically thriving in dry, sandy grasslands, fields, and open areas such as roadsides and wastelands. It is also found in cultivated lands and woodland margins. This species typically grows to a height of 4-12 inches and features small, yellow flowerheads that resemble hop flowers, blooming from late spring to early autumn. The flowers are modest in size but can be quite numerous, creating a noticeable display when in large populations.

Hop trefoil is valued for its nitrogen-fixing ability, which enriches the soil, making it a beneficial plant in agricultural settings. It is often used in wildflower mixes for meadows and is also planted for erosion control due to its fast growth and ground-covering habit. In cultivation, it prefers full sun to partial shade and thrives in well-drained sandy or loamy soils. It is drought-tolerant once established and requires minimal maintenance. However, gardeners should be aware that Trifolium campestre can become invasive outside its native range and may outcompete native vegetation. It is important to consult local guidelines before planting to prevent unintended spread.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

  • Plant Type: Herb
  • Height: 0.5-1.5 feet
  • Width: 0.5-1 feet
  • Growth Rate: Rapid
  • Flower Color: Yellow
  • Flowering Season: Spring, Summer
  • Leaf Retention: Semi-deciduous

Growth Requirements

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

Common Uses

Bee Garden, Erosion Control, Groundcover, Low Maintenance

Natural Habitat

Native to dry, sandy grasslands, fields, open areas such as roadsides and wastelands, cultivated lands, and woodland margins in Europe and western Asia

Other Names

Common Names: Hop Clover, Field Clover, Great Hop Trefoil, Low Hop Clover

Scientific Names: , Trifolium campestre, Amarenus campestris, Chrysaspis campestre, Chrysaspis campestris, Trifolium campestre f. nanum, Trifolium campestre f. patule-pilosum, Trifolium campestre var. campestre, Trifolium campestre var. minus, Trifolium procumbens subsp. campestre

GBIF Accepted Name: