Red Clover Plant Care
Trifolium pratense L.
Trifolium pratense, red clover, is a herbaceous species of flowering plant in the bean family, Fabaceae. It is native to the Old World, but planted and naturalised in many other regions.
Every 3–7 days
Full sun to partial shade
50–80°F
40–70%
What Is the Red Clover?
Red Clover (Trifolium pratense) belongs to the Fabaceae family within the Trifolium genus. Red Clover is native to the Old World. Red Clover is also known as Purple Clover, Cow Clover, Meadow Clover.
Red Clover displays a low-growing spreading perennial growth habit, reaching up to 0.5 inches tall with a spread of approximately 1 inches. Red Clover produces small rounded flower clusters in white, pink, or red.
Leaf size: approximately 2 inches.
How Often Should You Water a Red Clover?
Trifolium pratense requires watering every 3–7 days. Allow the top layer of soil to dry between waterings to prevent root rot. Reduce watering frequency during winter when growth slows.
Watering Frequency
Every 3–7 days
Let soil partially dry between waterings
What Light Does the Red Clover Need?
Red Clover thrives in full sun to partial shade light conditions. The optimal light range is 200–1000 lux. Avoid placing Red Clover in direct, harsh sunlight for extended periods, as this can scorch the foliage.
Light Requirement
Full sun to partial shade
200–1000 lux
What Temperature and Humidity Does the Red Clover Prefer?
Trifolium pratense grows best at temperatures between 50°F and 80°F. Red Clover prefers humidity levels of 40–70%.
Temperature
50–80°F
Humidity
40–70%
What Soil Mix Works Best for a Red Clover?
Well-draining loamy soil with added organic matter. Good drainage is essential for Red Clover to prevent waterlogging, which leads to root rot and fungal issues.
How Do You Repot a Red Clover?
Divide and replant every 2-3 years in early spring. Choose a pot one size larger than the current container, and ensure it has drainage holes to allow excess water to escape.
How Do You Propagate a Red Clover?
Red Clover can be propagated through seeds, division of clumps.
Fertilizing
Every 4 months
During the growing season
Is the Red Clover Toxic to Pets and Children?
Non-Toxic
Non-toxic to humans and pets
What Pests and Diseases Affect the Red Clover?
Red Clover is susceptible to aphids, leafhoppers, clover mites. Inspect the foliage regularly, especially along leaf undersides and stems. Treat infestations promptly with insecticidal soap or neem oil to prevent spread.
What USDA Hardiness Zone Does the Red Clover Need?
Red Clover grows outdoors in USDA Zone 12a. Native to the Old World, Red Clover is adapted to warm climates. In cooler regions, grow Red Clover as a houseplant or bring it indoors before the first frost.
Hardiness Zone
Zone 12a
Keep exploring plants
Red Clover is one of many species covered in the complete plant care and identification guide, which groups plants by genus, attribute, and popularity.
It belongs to the Trifolium genus — compare its care with other Trifolium species on PlantoScan.
Red Clover tolerates low-light rooms and shaded spots — browse the full list of low-light plants.
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