Trifolium fimbriatum

Lindl.

Springbank clover

Fabaceae Edible: Leaves, Root

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President and Fellows of Harvard College

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President and Fellows of Harvard College

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President and Fellows of Harvard College

Summary

Source: Wikipedia

A perennial clover reaching 1 m (3 ft 3 in) in height and spread. Hermaphroditic flowers are insect-pollinated. Fixes nitrogen and adapts to light sandy, medium loamy, and heavy clay soils with good drainage. Tolerates mildly acidic to basic soil pH and nutritionally poor soils. Requires full sun, prefers moist soil, and tolerates maritime exposure.

Description

Edible Uses

The root was a staple food for several native North American tribes, who semi-cultivated the plant to ensure reliable harvests. Roots can be dug at any time of year and were typically dried before cooking, though they were occasionally eaten raw. Dried roots keep well in a cool place for extended periods. The long horizontal rhizomes were considered superior to shorter taproots, and roots from soft, sandy soils were regarded as the finest. Leaves and flowers can be eaten raw, usually with salt. Wilted dry leaves have also been soaked and stirred in cold water to produce a sour drink.

Medicinal Uses

None known.

Distribution

It is a temperate plant.

Where It Grows

North America, USA,

Cultivation

We have very little information on this species and do not know if it will be hardy in Britain, though judging by its native range it should succeed outdoors in most parts of the country. It is likely to be resistant to maritime exposure. There is some uncertainty over the correct name for this species. T. wormskioldii, which is listed above as a synonym for this species might actually be the correct name for the species or it might be a separate closely related species. The following notes are based on the general needs of the genus. Succeeds in a moist, well-drained circum-neutral soil in full sun. Succeeds in poor soils. It grows well in an apple orchard, the trees will produce tastier fruit that stores better. It should not be grown with camellias or gooseberries because it harbours a mite that can cause fruit drop in the gooseberries and premature budding in the camellias. This species has a symbiotic relationship with certain soil bacteria, these bacteria form nodules on the roots and fix atmospheric nitrogen. Some of this nitrogen is utilized by the growing plant but some can also be used by other plants growing nearby. Buttercups growing nearby depress the growth of the nitrogen bacteria by means of a root exudate.

Propagation

Pre-soak seed for 12 hours in warm water, then sow in spring in situ. If seed is scarce, sow in pots in a cold frame instead. Prick seedlings out into individual pots once large enough to handle, and plant out after the last expected frosts. Can also be propagated by division in spring.