large hopclover
Family
FabaceaeScientific Name
Trifolium aureumOther Common Names:
large hop trefoil
golden clover
Synonyms (former Scientific Names):
T. strepens
Chrysaspis aurea
T. agrarium
Habit
This is an erect clover growing to about 1.5' tall and branching
Leaves
Trifoliate leaves with slender, hairless, toothed leaflets, fixed directly to the stem.
Identifying Characteristics
This species is noted for its distinct flower that resembles fresh hops in appearance. It is similar to several other hopflowers, but is taller and more upright.
Flower Seed Head
A yellow, lustrous flower makes a dense, oval shape with delta-shaped petals. Flower is up to 1 inch across
Seed Fruit
2 small peas in a pod.
Where Found
Native to Eurasia, but common across cool areas in the Mid-Atlantic. Often in dry areas such as roadsides
Growth Habit
upright and nonwoody
Thorns or Spines
not present
Approximate Flower Diameter
Varies:
dime,
nickle
Dominant Flower Color
yellow
Flower Symmetry
radial symmetery
Leaf Hairs
no hairs
Leaf Shape
Varies:
round,
oval,
triangle
Leaf Arrangement
alternate
Leaf Margin
serrated
Leaf Structure
trifoliate
Leaf Stalk
none
Stem Hairs
Varies:
has hairs,
no hairs
Stem Cross Section
round or oval
Milky Sap
not present
Root Structure
fibrous
Life Cycle
winter annual
Ochrea
not present
Plant Type
Herb