Trifolium hirtum, commonly known as rose clover, is an annual herb that is native to the Mediterranean region, including Southern Europe, Western Asia, and North Africa. It typically grows up to 16 inches tall and is characterized by its hairy stems, trifoliate leaves, and vibrant pink flowers that form dense, head-like inflorescences. The flowering season for rose clover is in the spring, and its blooms are quite showy, making it an attractive addition to wildflower meadows and informal garden settings.

Rose clover has notable benefits in cultivation, such as its ability to stabilize soil and fix atmospheric nitrogen, enriching the soil in which it grows. It is commonly used as a cover crop in agriculture and can also be found in urban plantings, borders, and as a ground cover in gardens. Rose clover thrives in full sun to part shade and prefers well-drained soils, though it is tolerant of a range of soil types. While it generally requires little maintenance, it can become a problem if it spreads outside of its intended area, potentially becoming invasive. Gardeners should be cautious and check local regulations before planting rose clover outside of its native range to avoid issues with invasiveness.CC BY-SA 4.0