Upright clover (Trifolium strictum, Cent. Pl. I: 24 (1755))

Family: Fabaceae

Author: L.

Bibliography: Cent. Pl. I: 24 (1755)

Year: 1755

Status: accepted

Rank: species

Genus: Trifolium

Vegetable: False

Observations: Europe to Türkiye, N. Africa

Description

Upright clover, scientifically known as Trifolium strictum, is a notable member of the Fabaceae family. This plant has been an essential part of botanical studies since it was first described by the renowned botanist L. in “Cent. Pl. I: 24” published in 1755.

Trifolium strictum is widely distributed across several regions, flourishing in varied climatic conditions. Its native range extends from Europe through Türkiye and even to parts of Northern Africa. This versatility in habitat reflects the plant’s adaptability and resilience, making it a subject of interest for botanists and ecologists alike.

The upright clover is easily recognizable by its characteristic erect growth habit, which distinguishes it from other clover species that tend to sprawl. This growth form not only influences its common name but also affects its ecological interactions and role in different ecosystems.

As a member of the Fabaceae family, Trifolium strictum plays a crucial role in nitrogen fixation, thereby enriching soil fertility and supporting sustainable agriculture in the regions it inhabits. Its presence contributes to the biodiversity and health of various habitats, showcasing the ecological importance of this species.

Overall, the upright clover is a remarkable plant with significant ecological value and an interesting botanical history. Its wide distribution and unique growth form continue to make it a topic of study and appreciation among plant enthusiasts and researchers.

Common Names

Swe: styvklöver
Cat: trèvol lluent
Eng: upright clover
Cym: meillionen unionsyth
En: Upright clover
Ca: Trèvol lluent
Fr: Trèfle droit, Trèfle raide
It: Trifoglio stretto
Sv: Styvklöver
Cy: Meillionen Unionsyth

Synonyms

• Trifolium laevigatum var. minus (Rouy)
• Paramesus laevigatus (Fourr.)
• Trifolium lucidum (Schousb. ex Ball)
• Trifolium laevigatum (Poir.)
• Trifolium laevigatum var. raquiticum (Costa)
• Paramesus strictus ((L.) C.Presl)
• Trifolium strictum var. elatum (Ser.)

Distribution

• Albania (native)
• Algeria (native)
• Bulgaria (native)
• Corse (native)
• Czechoslovakia (native)
• France (native)
• Great Britain (native)
• Greece (native)
• Hungary (native)
• Italy (native)
• Libya (native)
• Morocco (native)
• Portugal (native)
• Romania (native)
• Sardegna (native)
• Sicilia (native)
• Spain (native)
• Tunisia (native)
• Turkey (native)
• Turkey-in-Europe (native)
• Belgium (introduced)
• Germany (introduced)
• South Australia (introduced)

Additional Images

Other

Taken May 13, 2014 by Tela Botanica − Hugues TINGUY (cc-by-sa)

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

Sources

• WFO (No URL)
• IPNI (No URL)
• GBIF (https://www.gbif.org/species/5359475)
• POWO (http://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:523753-1)
• PlantNet (https://identify.plantnet.org/species/the-plant-list/Trifolium strictum L.)

Specifications

Growth

Bloom months: [‘may’, ‘jun’]