Mountain Clover

(Trifolium montanum)

Mountain Clover (Trifolium montanum)

/

return to results
Previous Plant Next Plant

/

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

Summary

Trifolium montanum, commonly known as mountain clover, is a perennial herb native to mountainous regions of Europe, including the Alps, Pyrenees, the Balkans, and Siberia. It is also found in meadows and grassy slopes in Scandinavia, as evidenced by its status as the county flower of Oslo, Norway. This species typically forms low clumps reaching 10-30 cm in height and is characterized by its trifoliate (three-parted) leaves and spherical, creamy white to pale pink flower heads that bloom from June to August. The flowers are modest in size but can be quite showy en masse.

Mountain clover is valued for its ability to thrive in poor soils and its use in wildflower meadows and alpine gardens. It is also appreciated for its nitrogen-fixing properties, which improve soil fertility. In cultivation, it prefers full sun to partial shade, well-drained soils, and tolerates drought once established. While not commonly used, it can serve as a ground cover or for erosion control on slopes. It is generally low-maintenance but can be susceptible to root rot in overly wet conditions.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

  • Plant Type: Herb
  • Height: 0.5-1.5 feet
  • Width: 0.5-1 feet
  • Growth Rate: Moderate
  • Flower Color: White
  • Flowering Season: Summer
  • Leaf Retention: Deciduous

Growth Requirements

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

Common Uses

Bee Garden, Low Maintenance

Natural Habitat

native to mountainous regions of Europe, including the Alps, Pyrenees, the Balkans, and Siberia

Other Names

Common Names: Mountain Clover, White Clover, European Clover

Scientific Names: , Trifolium montanum, Amoria montana, Lagopus montanus, Trifolium endressii,

GBIF Accepted Name: