Family: Fabaceae Genus: Trifolium  

Species: Trifolium pratense L.

Common Name(s): red clover, purple clover, meadow honeysuckle, cowgrass clover, medium red clover, peavine clover

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Trifolium pratense, commonly known as red clover, is native to Europe and Asia, and widely cultivated and naturalized in many other regions of the world.

Traditional Medicine and Modern Science

Red clover has a long history of use as a medicinal herb, and has been used to treat respiratory problems, skin conditions, and menstrual disorders. Health benefits of red clover are said to also include reducing the risk of cardiovascular disease, boosting immunity, and supporting bone health. Red clover has been studied for its potential health benefits associated with fighting breast and prostate cancer, improving skin, liver, and lung health, and supporting hormone balance in men and women.184

Gastronomy

Red clover is a member of the pea family Fabaceae, and is commonly used in salads and teas. It’s a good source of vitamins, minerals, and other nutrients, including vitamin C, calcium, iron, magnesium, and phytoestrogens (a group of naturally occurring compounds in plants that have a chemical structure similar to estrogen).185

Horticulture, Ornamental, and Other Colorful Uses

Red cover is commonly used as a forage crop and cover crop in agriculture. Some of the potential benefits of growing red clover include nitrogen fixation, erosion control, weed suppression, improved soil health, and livestock feed. It is high in protein and essential vitamins and minerals, and can be harvested and fed to livestock as a green manure.186

Ecology

Red clover is an important plant for pollinators, attracting bees, butterflies, and other insects with its nectar-rich flowers. It is also used as a food source by various wildlife species, including rabbits, deer, and birds. In agricultural systems, red clover can help support biodiversity by providing habitat and food for beneficial insects and other organisms.187