Kates Mountain Clover

Trifolium virginicum

Taxonomy

Division:
Magnoliophyta | - Flowering plants
Family:
Fabaceae
Genus:
Trifolium
Species:
Trifolium virginicum

Growth Characteristics

Life Cycle:
Perennial
Growth Habit:
Forb/herb
Height:
1-2 ft
Light Requirements:
Full Sun
Bloom Months:
may, jul
Bloom Colors:
pink, white
Ground Cover:
Yes

Native Range

United States: Maryland, Pennsylvania, Virginia, West Virginia

Keystone Species Ranking

Bee Keystone:
★★★★☆ Based on number of native bee species using this genus for pollen and nectar (Source: National Wildlife Federation)

Host Plant for Caterpillars

jaguar flower moth (Schinia jaguarina), Orange Sulphur (Colias eurytheme)

Soil Requirements

Soil Type:
sandy, well-drained, nutrient-poor soil
pH:
5.5 - 7.0 (slightly acidic to neutral)
Drainage:
excellent drainage required
Moisture:
dry to moderate
Notes:
native to rocky, open areas; prefers limestone-based soils

Germination Information

Pre-treatment: Cold-moist stratification for 30 days at 1–5°C (34–41°F).

Source: OpenAI GPT-4o