Bull Clover

(Trifolium fucatum)

Bull Clover (Trifolium fucatum)

/

return to results
Previous Plant Next Plant

/

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

Summary

Trifolium fucatum, commonly known as Bull Clover, is an annual herb native to the grasslands, meadows, and open woodlands of California and Oregon. It typically grows to a height of 12 to 24 inches (30 to 60 cm). Bull Clover is characterized by its thick-walled, hollow stems and trifoliate leaves, with each leaflet being oval or rounded. The plant produces distinctive inflorescences that are initially white or yellowish with purple tips, blooming from April to June. As the fruit develops, the flowers become inflated and papery. The flowers are not particularly showy but are interesting due to their unique shape and coloration.

Bull Clover is valued for its nitrogen-fixing ability, which enriches the soil, making it a beneficial addition to restoration projects and naturalized areas. It is also used as forage for livestock and wildlife. In cultivation, Bull Clover prefers full sun to part shade, and it thrives in well-drained soils. It is drought-tolerant once established and requires minimal maintenance. While it is edible and has been consumed by indigenous peoples, it is not commonly used in modern culinary practices.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

  • Plant Type: Herb
  • Height: 0.5-1 feet
  • Width: 0.5-1 feet
  • Growth Rate: Moderate
  • Flower Color: Purple, White, Yellow
  • Flowering Season: Spring, Summer
  • Leaf Retention:

Growth Requirements

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

Common Uses

Bee Garden, Low Maintenance

Natural Habitat

Grasslands, meadows, and open woodlands of California and Oregon

Other Names

Common Names: Puff Clover, Sour Clover

Scientific Names: , Trifolium fucatum, Trifolium flavulum, Trifolium fucatum f. flavulum, Trifolium fucatum f. virescens, Trifolium fucatum var. flavulum, Trifolium fucatum var. fucatum, Trifolium fucatum var. gambelii, Trifolium fucatum var. virescens, Trifolium furcatum

GBIF Accepted Name: