Running buffalo clover (Trifolium stoloniferum)

Also known as: Running Buffalo Clover

Running buffalo clover (Trifolium stoloniferum) is a perennial plant characterized by its ability to spread through stolons, which are horizontal stems that facilitate vegetative propagation. It has trifoliate leaves, each featuring three oval leaflets often marked with a white chevron. When in bloom, the plant produces clusters of small, spherical flowers that range from white to pink.

Ecologically, running buffalo clover plays a significant role by enriching soil through nitrogen fixation and providing essential resources for pollinators such as bees and butterflies. It thrives in grasslands and meadows, contributing to the biodiversity and health of these ecosystems.

In This Article

Care Tips Water Sunlight Temperature Soil Fertilize Prune Propagation Repotting

Attributes of Running buffalo clover

Lifespan

Perennial

Plant Type

Herb

Plant Height

10 - 30 cm

Spread

10 - 25 cm

Leaf Color

Green with a white \'V\' mark

Flower Size

0.5 - 1 cm

Flower Color

White

Images of Running buffalo clover

Quickly Identify Running buffalo clover

Running Buffalo Clover can be identified by its stoloniferous growth habit, trifoliate leaves with a characteristic white \'V\' shape, and small white flowers clustered in spherical heads.

Scientific Classification of Running buffalo clover

Phylum

Vascular plants

Class

Dicotyledons

Order

Fabales

Family

Legume

Genus

Clovers

Species

Running buffalo clover

Planting and Growing of Running buffalo clover

Care Difficulty

Easy

Watering Schedule

Every 3 days

Sunlight Requirements

Partial sun

Sunshine Duration

6-10 hours

Ideal Temperature

60-75℉

Soil Type

Potting Mix, Peat Mix

Soil pH

6.5-7.5

Fertilizer Type

Balanced

Pruning Season

Spring, Summer

Pruning Area

Branches, Leaves

Pruning Frequency

2 times a year

Repotting Season

Spring

Pot Type

Plastic, Ceramic

How to Water Running buffalo clover?

When watering Trifolium stoloniferum, aim to drench the soil allowing it to become moist but not soggy. Adjust based on pot size and drainage; approximately 150 ml should suffice. Ensure no water pooling at the bottom.

What are the symptoms of an underwatered Running buffalo clover? ›

What should I do if my Running buffalo clover is not getting enough water? ›

What are the symptoms of an overwatered Running buffalo clover? ›

How to save an overwatered Running buffalo clover? ›

What Are the Sunlight Requirements for Running buffalo clover?

Sunlight Requirements: Partial sun, Full sun

Duration of light: 4 to 6 hours

Trifolium stoloniferum thrives in partial to full sun environments. Ideal lighting ensures strong growth, vibrant foliage, and enhanced ecological functions, maximizing its role in garden ecosystems.

What is the ideal sunlight condition for Trifolium stoloniferum? ›

How can I ensure Trifolium stoloniferum receives the ideal lighting? ›

What benefits does Trifolium stoloniferum gain from ideal lighting conditions? ›

What Is the Ideal Temperature Range for Running buffalo clover?

Ideal Temperature: 60 ~ 75℉

The ideal temperature range for Trifolium stoloniferum is from 60°F to 75°F. This range provides optimal conditions for growth by ensuring that the plant can carry out photosynthesis efficiently, maintain proper cellular functions, and support overall health. Within this range, the plant can thrive, producing lush green foliage and vibrant flowers.

What Soil is Best for Running buffalo clover?

Soil type: Loam, Sandy loam

Soil PH: 6.5 ~ 7.5

This plant requires well-drained soil to prevent root rot. The loose structure of the soil allows for proper air flow and water drainage, ensuring the roots remain healthy and deeply anchored. Trifolium stoloniferum thrives in soils with moderate nutrient levels. Access to essential nutrients supports robust plant growth and encourages prolific flowering, vital for its reproduction and attraction of pollinators. Maintaining consistent moisture in the soil is crucial for this plant. It ensures that the plant has a steady water supply during its growing periods, supporting lush foliage and optimal plant development.

How to Fertilize Running buffalo clover?

Fertilizer type: Balanced

For Trifolium stoloniferum, it's crucial to strike a balance when it comes to fertilization. Generally, a liquid fertilizer concentration of 1/4 strength is recommended, applied twice a month. This ensures the plant gets adequate nutrients without the risk of over-fertilization. When using slow-release fertilizers, apply sparingly—around two to three times a year is sufficient. Always ensure the soil is adequately moistened before applying any fertilizer to prevent burning the roots.

How to Prune Running buffalo clover?

Pruning Time: Spring, Summer

Begin by identifying any dead, damaged, or diseased stems. These should be the first to go, as they can harm the plant's overall health. Make your cuts at a slight angle to prevent water from accumulating on the cut surface, which can lead to rot. This technique helps in faster healing. When choosing which healthy stems to prune, aim for an open center to improve air circulation and balance the shape of the Trifolium stoloniferum. More About Pruning Techniques→

How to Propagate Running buffalo clover plant?

Propagate Time: Spring, Early Summer, Late Spring

Use a well-draining potting mix to fill containers or seed trays. Moisten the soil slightly before planting seeds or placing cuttings to enhance initial root development.

Scatter seeds evenly over the soil surface, then cover lightly with a thin layer of soil. Mist lightly with water and place in a location with indirect sunlight to encourage germination.

Select a healthy parent plant and cut a 4 to 6-inch stem just below a node. Remove the lower leaves and dip the cut end in rooting hormone to promote root development.

More About Propagating Techniques→

How to Repot Running buffalo clover plant?

Repotting frequency: Every 2-3 years

To determine the right time to repot Trifolium stoloniferum, look for signs such as roots emerging from the drainage holes, slow growth, or water taking longer to drain. A good rule of thumb is to check the plant every spring or summer. This timing allows the plant to recover from the repotting process during its active growing season.

When selecting a pot for Trifolium stoloniferum, it's crucial to choose one that is only slightly larger than the current one, with adequate drainage holes to prevent waterlogging. Opting for a pot made of breathable materials like terracotta can further aid in maintaining healthy root conditions by allowing excess moisture to evaporate, reducing the risk of root rot.

For Trifolium stoloniferum, a well-draining loamy soil mix with some organic matter is ideal. This type of soil provides the necessary structure to hold the plant while ensuring adequate air and moisture circulation around the roots, supporting healthy growth and preventing common issues like root rot caused by water retention.