Pale clover (Trifolium pallescens, J.Sturm, Deutschl. Fl. Abbild. 4: 15 (1804))

Family: Fabaceae

Author: Schreb.

Bibliography: J.Sturm, Deutschl. Fl. Abbild. 4: 15 (1804)

Year: 1804

Status: accepted

Rank: species

Genus: Trifolium

Vegetable: False

Observations: Mts. of C. & S. Europe

Description

The Pale Clover, known scientifically as Trifolium pallescens, is a unique and delicate member of the Fabaceae family. This modest yet captivating plant can primarily be found gracing the mountainous regions of Central and Southern Europe, where it thrives in the cool, elevated climate.

First described in the early 19th century by J. Sturm, whose depiction in the work “Deutschl. Fl. Abbild.” dated 1804 serves as a cornerstone reference for this species, Pale Clover embodies both historical botanical significance and ecological adaptability. The classification of this species was rendered by the botanist Schreb., contributing to our understanding of its taxonomy and natural history.

The appeal of Trifolium pallescens lies in its subtle beauty. It is characterized by delicate, pale-hued flowers, which showcase a soft and understated palette that contrasts with the often vivid and vibrant hues seen in many other members of the clover genus. This feature makes it a gentle burst of color amidst the rocky and rugged terrain of its native habitats.

From an ecological standpoint, Pale Clover plays a role in its native ecosystems by contributing to soil fertility through its natural ability to fix nitrogen. As a legume, it aids in enriching the soil, fostering an environment where other plant species can flourish. This capability is vital for maintaining the health and balance of mountainous ecosystems where it is found.

Not only does Trifolium pallescens offer ecological benefits, but it also presents botanical interest and aesthetic pleasure to those who encounter it in its natural setting. Its presence in the mountainous landscapes of Central and Southern Europe is a testament to the intricate and beautiful interplay of flora that defines these regions.

As we continue to study and appreciate diverse plant species like the Pale Clover, we deepen our understanding of the natural world and the interdependencies that sustain various ecosystems. Through its modest yet essential existence, Trifolium pallescens enriches our botanical heritage and ecological knowledge.

Common Names

En: Pale Clover
Fr: Trèfle pâle d’Auvergne, Trèfle pâlissant
De: Bleicher Klee
It: Trifoglio pallescente
: Pale clover

Synonyms

• Trifolium glareosum (Schleich.)
• Trifolium caespitosum (Sturm)
• Trifolium repens var. glareosum ((Schleich.) Gaudin)
• Amoria pallescens ((Schreb.) C.Presl)
• Trifolium pallescens subsp. arvernense ((Lamotte) Nyman)
• Trifolium pallescens var. glareosum ((Schleich.) Rouy)
• Trifolium pallescens var. arvernense ((Lamotte) Rouy)
• Trifolium arvernense (Lamotte)

Distribution

• Albania (native)
• Austria (native)
• Bulgaria (native)
• France (native)
• Greece (native)
• Italy (native)
• Romania (native)
• Spain (native)
• Switzerland (native)
• Ukraine (native)
• Yugoslavia (native)

Additional Images

Other

Taken Jul 15, 2008 by Photoflora – Benoit BOCK (©)

Taken Jul 15, 2008 by Photoflora – Benoit BOCK (©)

Taken Jan 1, 1970 by Photoflora – L’Abbé COSTE (©)

Taken Aug 25, 2021 by Pietro Brignoli (cc-by-sa)

Leaf

Taken Jul 15, 2008 by Photoflora – Benoit BOCK (©)

Taken Jul 15, 2008 by Photoflora – Benoit BOCK (©)

Taken Jul 15, 2008 by Photoflora – Benoit BOCK (©)

Taken Jan 1, 1800 by Tela Botanica − La Spada ARTURO (cc-by-sa)

Taken Aug 25, 2021 by Pietro Brignoli (cc-by-sa)

Flower

Taken Aug 27, 2021 by Sylvain JOYEUX (cc-by-sa)

Taken Aug 13, 2021 by Ilaria Paris (cc-by-sa)

Taken Aug 22, 2022 by Claudio Lombardo (cc-by-sa)

Taken Feb 5, 2022 by witt1 (cc-by-sa)

Taken Aug 25, 2021 by Pietro Brignoli (cc-by-sa)

Habit

Taken Jan 1, 1800 by Tela Botanica − La Spada ARTURO (cc-by-sa)

Taken Aug 21, 2015 by Tela Botanica − Jean-Luc GORREMANS (cc-by-sa)

Taken Jan 1, 1800 by Tela Botanica − La Spada ARTURO (cc-by-sa)

Taken Jan 1, 1800 by Tela Botanica − La Spada ARTURO (cc-by-sa)

Taken Jan 1, 1800 by Tela Botanica − La Spada ARTURO (cc-by-sa)

Fruit

Taken Jul 15, 2008 by Photoflora – Benoit BOCK (©)

Taken Jul 15, 2008 by Photoflora – Benoit BOCK (©)

Taken Jan 1, 1800 by Tela Botanica − La Spada ARTURO (cc-by-sa)

Sources

• WFO (No URL)
• IPNI (No URL)
• GBIF (https://www.gbif.org/species/5359121)
• POWO (http://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:523497-1)
• PlantNet (https://identify.plantnet.org/species/the-plant-list/Trifolium pallescens Schreb.)

Specifications

Growth

Ph maximum: 5.5

Ph minimum: 5.0

Light: 8

Atmospheric humidity: 5

Bloom months: [‘jul’, ‘aug’]

Soil nutriments: 2