Plant of the Month: April, 1999

by Russell Stevens

Crimson Clover
Trifolium incarnaturm

Characteristics: Crimson clover is an introduced, cool season annual legume. Crimson clover derives its common name from its bright, crimson colored flowers. It can grow to a height of 36 inches and is well suited to sandy to well drained clay soils. Soil pH should range from five to seven. Crimson clovers' ability to escape and persist along roadsides is a testimonial to its ability to survive with minimal inputs.

Area of Importance: Eastern two-thirds of Oklahoma and Texas.

Attributes: Crimson clover, like many other legumes, is high in protein. Therefore, it can be an excellent source of late winter/early spring supplemental forage for livestock. If planted early enough, crimson clover may provide some fall forage. It can be planted in permanent pastures. Improved varieties have been known to produce two tons of dry matter forage in stands planted on clean tilled ground. White-tailed deer and turkey also use crimson clover.

Problems: Crimson clovers' biggest disadvantage is its early maturity or short growing season. Crimson clover usually begins flowering in March and matures in April. This short growing season usually results in less total production than other clovers. Summer seed germination can be a problem in some areas resulting in insufficient seed for fall stands.

I.D. Tip: Look for showy, crimson red flowers in March. Crimson clover usually grows very close together, almost forming a mat.

Hundreds of plants are identified in the Noble Foundation Plant Image Gallery.