Categories: Fabaceae

Sulphur clover (Trifolium ochroleucon, Fl. Angl.: 283 (1762))

Family: Fabaceae

Author: Huds.

Bibliography: Fl. Angl.: 283 (1762)

Year: 1762

Status: accepted

Rank: species

Genus: Trifolium

Vegetable: False

Observations: Europe to Iran, NW. Africa

Description

Sulphur clover, known scientifically as Trifolium ochroleucon, is a perennial plant belonging to the Fabaceae family. This species was first documented in 1762 by the botanist Huds. It is a distinctive member of the clover genus, recognized for its unique flowering characteristics.

Description

Sulphur clover is notable for its pale yellow to cream-colored flowers, which distinguish it from other clover species with typically red or white blooms. The flower heads are dense and globular, consisting of multiple florets. These blooms are often a magnet for pollinators, contributing to the plant’s role in supporting local ecosystems.

The plant has a robust, upright growth habit and can reach a height of 30 to 50 centimeters. The leaves are trifoliate, meaning they are composed of three leaflets, a common trait among members of the clover genus. Each leaflet is oblong and finely toothed, presenting a soft texture on its surface.

Habitat and Distribution

Sulphur clover thrives in a variety of habitats across its expansive range. From the grassy meadows and open woodlands of Europe to the more arid regions extending to Iran and Northwest Africa, this plant is highly adaptable. Its presence in diverse climates speaks to its resilience and ability to prosper in different environmental conditions.

Ecological Importance

As a member of the Fabaceae family, sulphur clover plays a critical role in nitrogen fixation, enhancing soil fertility. This biochemical process involves converting atmospheric nitrogen into a form that plants can assimilate, thus enriching the soil and promoting healthier plant communities. This characteristic makes sulphur clover an invaluable component of natural and agricultural systems.

Uses

While not as commonly utilized as other clover species, sulphur clover still holds value in traditional and modern applications. Its leaves and flowers have been used in herbal remedies, owing to their mild astringent properties. Additionally, the plant can serve as forage for livestock, although it is less favored compared to red and white clover varieties.

Conservation Status

Currently, sulphur clover does not face any major threats and is not listed as endangered. Its widespread distribution helps ensure that the species remains stable across its range. However, like many wild plants, it could be susceptible to habitat loss and environmental changes caused by human activities.

Conclusion

Trifolium ochroleucon, or sulphur clover, is a remarkable plant that combines ecological significance with unique botanical features. Its adaptability across a broad range and its role in supporting both pollinators and soil health highlight the importance of preserving such species in our natural landscapes.

Common Names

Deu: blassgelber klee, gelblichweißer klee
Dan: bleggul kløver
Eng: sulphur clover
Cat: trèvol ocroleuc
Nld: geelwitte klaver
Swe: blekklöver
Cym: meillion gwelw, meillionen felenwelw, meillionen welw
En: Sulphur clover
Ar: نفل كبريتي
Bg: Бледожълта детелина
Ca: Trèvol ocroleuc
Cs: Jetel bledožlutý
Da: Bleggul Kløver
Nl: Geelwitte klaver
Fi: Kalvasapila
Fr: Trèfle jaunâtre, Trèfle beige, Trèfle jaune pâle
De: Gelblichweisser Klee, Blassgelber Klee, Gelblichweißer KLee, Blaßgelber Klee, Gelblicher Klee
Is: Skuggasmári
It: Trifoglio bianco-giallo
Pl: Koniczyna żółtobiała
Sv: Blekklöver
Cy: Meillionen welw, Meillion Gwelw, Meillionen Felenwelw

Synonyms

Trifolium ochroleucon f. roseum ((C.Presl) Merino)

Distribution

Albania (native)
Algeria (native)
Austria (native)
Belgium (native)
Bulgaria (native)
Corse (native)
Czechoslovakia (native)
East Aegean Is. (native)
France (native)
Germany (native)
Great Britain (native)
Greece (native)
Hungary (native)
Iran (native)
Italy (native)
Krym (native)
Lebanon-Syria (native)
Morocco (native)
North Caucasus (native)
Poland (native)
Portugal (native)
Romania (native)
Sardegna (native)
Sicilia (native)
South European Russi (native)
Spain (native)
Switzerland (native)
Transcaucasus (native)
Turkey (native)
Turkey-in-Europe (native)
Ukraine (native)
Yugoslavia (native)
New Zealand South (introduced)

Additional Images

Other

Taken Jul 15, 2007 by Photoflora – Jean-Luc TASSET (©)

Taken May 15, 2009 by Photoflora – Benoit BOCK (©)

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

Taken May 11, 2018 by Tela Botanica − Yves PENIT (cc-by-sa)

Taken May 24, 2020 by Sylvain Piry (cc-by-sa)