Springbank Clover, Cows clover

Trifolium fimbriatum

Physical Characteristics

Trifolium fimbriatum is a PERENNIAL growing to 1 m (3ft 3in) by 1 m (3ft 3in). The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Insects. It can fix Nitrogen. Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils, prefers well-drained soil and can grow in nutritionally poor soil. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils. It cannot grow in the shade. It prefers moist soil. The plant can tolerate maritime exposure.

Distribution

Western N. America.

Habitats

Cultivated Beds;

Edible Uses

Edible Parts: Leaves Root Edible Uses: Root - raw or cooked[61, 105, 118, 257]. The root was a very important food crop for several native North American Indian tribes, who semi-cultivated the plant to ensure good yields every year[256]. The roots can be harvested at any time of the year and were normally dried before being cooked, though they were also occasionally eaten raw[256]. The dried root will store for a considerable period of time if it is kept in a cool place[256]. The Indians considered the long horizontal rhizomes to be superior to the shorter taproots, and also considered that the best roots grew in soft sandy soils[256]. An important vegetable[177]. This report refers to T. wormskioldiana and gives no more details. It probably means the root. Leaves and flowers - raw[257]. Usually eaten raw with salt[257]. The wilted dry leaves have been soaked and stirred in cold water to make a sour drink[257].

Medicinal Uses

None known

Known Hazards

None known