White clover (Trifolium repens) is a low-growing perennial that spreads and forms dense mats. While it is generally considered a weed and an invasive plant, especially when it spreads in turfgrass, it also has its benefits.

As a member of the pea family, it fixes nitrogen in the soil. It is used as a cover crop and living mulch in home vegetable gardens and agriculture. Its dense root system prevents soil compaction and erosion, making it a good ground cover for some areas. Because of its drought tolerance, the fact that it aerates the soil, rarely needs mowing and it holds up well to foot traffic and dog urine, is it also used as a turfgrass substitute in clover lawns. Its small, white flowers in late spring attract bees.

Common Name White clover
Botanical Name Trifolium repens
Family Fabaceae
Plant Type Perennial, herbaceous
Mature Size 4-6 in. tall, 1 ft. wide
Sun Exposure Full, partial
Soil Type Well-drained, moist
Soil pH Acidic, neutral
Bloom Time Spring, summer
Flower Color White
Hardiness Zones 3-10 (USDA)
Native Area Europe

White Clover Care

You will find that white clover does not require much care at all. Plant it in soil with good drainage and a bit of shade, and do not let the soil dry out completely. This basic care should be enough for the plant to thrive.

But, because Trifolium repens does spread aggressively, it may move into areas of your yard where you do not want it. Pulling it out will require extra landscape maintenance. So think carefully before you plant white clover unless you do not mind having it take over. At the very least, do not install it near flower beds.

Warning

White clover spreads rapidly and aggressively and is listed as an invasive species in the United States. It has naturalized across much of the country, not only in lawns but also in meadows, along roadsides, and in U.S. National Parks.

Light

White clover performs best in partial sun, but it tolerates being planted in areas that receive full sun.

Soil

White clover thrives in soil that is well-drained and fertile with a pH between 6 and 7.

Water

White clover performs best in evenly moist soil. It tolerates dry ground but will not spread as much, which is a good thing if you are concerned about the plant spreading out of control.

Fertilizer

White clover does not need to be fertilized.

Types of White Clover

In addition to the wild plant, improved varieties of Trifolium repens include:

  • Micro clover: this is shorter, with smaller leaves
  • ‘Atropurpureum’: sports chocolate-brown foliage with green margins
  • ‘Dragon’s Blood’: maybe the most attractive variety of white clover, bearing tricolored leaves (green, red, and white)

Propagating White Clover

White clover, like other clovers, spreads out by sending offshoots from a plant that will develop another plant. To propagate white clover, separate these offshoots from the mother plant.

  1. Locate a mature plant that has an offshoot branched out from it.
  2. Using pruning shears or scissors, cut the offshoot to separate it from the mother plant.
  3. Plant the offshoot slightly below the soil in the desired location and secure the plant by pushing the soil down around it. Then water.

How to Grow White Clover From Seed

This plant grows easily from seed. It is best to do this in spring or summer during warm weather. Directly sow the seeds in your yard by raking the soil and then simply scattering them around and watering. The clover will start sprouting in as little as two to three days but can take up to seven to 10 days depending on the temperature. Keep the area watered and moist where the seeds have been spread.

Common Pests & Plant Diseases

White clover is known for being particularly resistant to pests and diseases. This is part of what makes it an appealing choice in many garden landscapes, providing you are willing to overlook its spreading tendencies. It is a major food source for honeybees.

FAQ

    • White clover has several benefits. It adds nitrogen to the soil when planted in the fall and tilled under in the spring. It crowds out weeds and prevents erosion. When in bloom, it serves as a source of pollen and nectar for bees.

    • Provided that the white clover has not been treated with any chemicals, all parts of the plant are edible. The flowers and leaves can be eaten raw or cooked.

    • White clover is one member in the clover (Trifolium) genus of 300 species. It is the most widely grown clover in the United States.