Trifolium arvense

RHS Plant Profile
hare's foot clover

Other common names

bottle grass, cats and dogs, dog-and-cat grass, hare's foot trefoil, pussies, pussy's clover, rabbit foot, stone clover, poverty grass

Annual Biennial

A spreading, semi-upright, native annual to about 25cm found in dry grassland, field margins, sand dunes and other open spaces. The slightly hairy leaves have three, narrow leaflets and the sepals have long, silky hairs covering the tiny, pale pink flowers to create fluffy, cylindrical flowerheads, giving the plant its common name

Position

Full sun

Soil Types

Chalk, Loam, Sand

Max Height

0.1-0.5 metres

Max Spread

0.1-0.5 metres

Size

Time to Maturity
1 year
Max Spread
0.1-0.5 metres
Max Height
0.1-0.5 metres

Growing Conditions

Chalk Loam Sand
Moisture
Well–drained
pH
Acid or Alkaline or Neutral

Position

Full sun
Aspect
East–facing or South–facing or West–facing
Exposure
Exposed or Sheltered
Hardiness
H7

Colour & Scent

Season Stem Flower Foliage Fruit
Spring
Summer
Autumn
Winter

Botanical Details

Family
Fabaceae
Native to GB/Ireland
Yes
Foliage
Deciduous
Habit
Matforming
Genus
Trifolium are erect or creeping annuals, biennials and herbaceous perennials with trefoil leaves and small, pea-like flowers usually in clusters or short spikes
Name Status
Correct

How to Grow

Cultivation

An annual wildflower, spread by seed, preferring a sunny spot on well-drained soil with sparse coverage. Its hairy leaves and flowers make an interesting addition to a species-rich lawn, green roof or gravel garden. See clover in lawns for more information

Propagation

Propagate by seed

Suggested planting locations and garden types

  • Wildflower meadow
  • Wildlife gardens

Pruning

No pruning required

Pests

Generally pest-free

Diseases

Generally disease-free