The white clover, most commonly called the shamrock Trifolioum repens forma minus, family Fabaceae, was the original Shamrock of Ireland. Clovers are naturally perennial, however, shortlived in the subtropics.Clovers or
Shamrocks?
By Chelsie Stokesbary There really is no such thing as a "Shamrock Plant". The Irish word "shamrock" translates into the English word "clover". The plant mainly produces a three leaf clover, but there are some times when four leaves grow.The four leaf clover is a universally accepted symbol of good luck.
It is a prostrate legume which spreads by creeping stolons which root freely in moist soil. Most of its productivity occurs in the spring. White clover grows best on silt loams, free draining loams and clay loams, but will thrive on poorer soil if fertilized. There are many old and new varieties of clovers today. Clovers are frost-tolerant, but shade-sensitive.
Clovers are a good source of protein for animals and are eaten by a variety of different grazing animals.
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Saint Patrick used to plant the clover to illustrate the
Holy Trinity. In the case of four-leaf clovers, many believe that one leaf
is for hope, one is for faith, one for love and the fourth for luck!
References:
www.dpi.qld.gov.au/pastures/4483.html
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