Tomcat clover (Trifolium willdenovii, Syst. Veg. 3: 208 (1826))

Family: Fabaceae

Author: Spreng.

Bibliography: Syst. Veg. 3: 208 (1826)

Year: 1826

Status: accepted

Rank: species

Genus: Trifolium

Vegetable: False

Observations: W. U.S.A. to NW. Mexico

Description

Tomcat clover, scientifically known as Trifolium willdenovii, is a charming and resilient member of the Fabaceae family. This perennial herb is distinguished by its ability to thrive in diverse climates, specifically ranging from the western regions of the United States to the northwestern parts of Mexico.

First classified in 1826 by the noted botanist Sprengel in “Systema Vegetabilium,” Tomcat clover has maintained its relevance and importance in the study of plant ecology and botany. Its presence is noted across various landscapes, contributing to the rich biodiversity found within these territories.

Known for its typical clover appearance, Tomcat clover exhibits trifoliate leaves that are both modest and unobtrusive, yet they play an integral role in the plant’s ability to adapt and flourish in varying soil types. The flowers, which bloom in distinctive clusters, add a vibrant touch to the wild plants’ settings, attracting pollinators and contributing to the local ecosystem’s health.

This species’ adaptability makes it a valuable plant for both ecological studies and practical applications. Its leguminous nature allows it to fix nitrogen in the soil, enhancing fertility and aiding in plant community sustainability. This characteristic is particularly beneficial in restoration ecology, where Tomcat clover can be employed to rehabilitate degraded lands.

In summary, Trifolium willdenovii, or Tomcat clover, is a significant plant within the Fabaceae family, known for its widespread presence from the western United States to northwestern Mexico. Described in the early 19th century by Sprengel, its ecological contributions and adaptability continue to underscore its importance within various natural habitats.

Common Names

Eng: tomcat clover, willdenow’s clover
Fra: trèfle de willdenow
En: Tomcat clover, Willdenow’s clover
Fr: Trèfle de Willdenow

Synonyms

• Trifolium tridentatum (Lindl.)
• Trifolium watsonii (Lojac.)
• Trifolium tridentatum var. segetum ((Greene) McDermott)
• Trifolium tridentatum f. trimorphum ((Greene) McDermott)
• Trifolium tridentatum var. scabrellum ((Greene) Greene)
• Trifolium trimorphum (Greene)
• Trifolium tridentatum var. aciculare ((Nutt.) McDermott)
• Trifolium scabrellum (Greene)
• Trifolium tridentatum var. watsonii ((Lojac.) Jeps.)
• Trifolium willdenovii var. typicum (L.D.Benson)
• Trifolium fimbriatum var. angustifolium (A.Gray)
• Trifolium segetum (Greene)
• Trifolium tridentatum var. clivorum (Jeps.)
• Trifolium tridentatum f. watsonii ((Lojac.) McDermott)
• Trifolium nuttallii (Steud.)
• Trifolium polyphyllum (Nutt.)
• Trifolium aciculare (Nutt.)

Distribution

• Arizona (native)
• California (native)
• Idaho (native)
• Mexico Northwest (native)
• Oregon (native)
• Washington (native)

Additional Images

Flower

Taken Apr 14, 2016 by EOL − Leslie Flint (cc-by-nc)

Taken Apr 10, 2016 by EOL − Donna Pomeroy (cc-by-nc)

Taken Apr 10, 2016 by EOL − Donna Pomeroy (cc-by-nc)

Taken Apr 1, 2016 by EOL − James Bailey (cc-by-nc)

Taken Mar 4, 2011 by EOL − Ryan Batten (cc-by-nc-sa)

© copyright of the Board of Trustees of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew.

Habit

Taken Feb 25, 2008 by EOL − Keir Morse (cc-by-nc-sa)

Taken Dec 28, 2008 by EOL − Keir Morse (cc-by-nc-sa)

Taken Apr 7, 2011 by EOL − Tom Reyes (cc-by-nc-sa)

Taken Jan 29, 2016 by EOL − felixerhard (cc-by-nc)

Taken Apr 1, 2016 by EOL − James Bailey (cc-by-nc)

Sources

• WFO (No URL)
• IPNI (No URL)
• POWO (http://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:523862-1)
• GBIF (https://www.gbif.org/species/5358922)
• PlantNet (https://identify.plantnet.org/species/the-plant-list/Trifolium willdenovii Spreng.)

Specifications

Growth habit>: Forb/herb

Growth