Trifolium lappaceum Plant Identification (Flower, Leaf, Care, Uses)

Family – Fabaceae

Stems:

N/A

Leaves:

Stipule.

Inflorescence:

N/A

Flowers:

Fruiting calices.

Flowering – March – August.

Habitat – Weedy fields, roadsides, lawns.

Origin – Native to Eurasia and Africa.

Other information – This weedy introduced plant can be found in scattered counties throughout Alabama and is probably more common than reported. The plant can be identified by its villous leaves and long, villous calyx lobes. The globose fruiting heads are characteristic for this species.
The genus name Trifolium derives from the Latin “tri” meaning “three” and “foli” meaning “a leaf.”
The species epithet lappaceum derives from the Latin “lapp(a)” meaning “bur, burdock” referring to the bur-like fruiting heads.

Alabama Distribution:

Photographs taken off Hwy 80 near Montgomery, AL., 6-4-05.