How to identify Buffalo clover (Trifolium reflexum)

Photo By ksandsman , used under CC-BY-4.0 /Cropped and compressed from original

How to identify Buffalo clover (Trifolium reflexum)

Buffalo clover showcases a trifoliate leaf arrangement typical of its family, with each leaflet being roughly 0.8-2 inches (2-5 cm) long. The foliage often has a distinctive green hue. Flower heads are generally spherical, with individual flowers ranging from pink to purple, each approximately 0.4 inches (1 cm) long. These blooms form an inflorescence that may hang or reflex, giving the plant its unique appearance. Blooming occurs during the late spring to early summer. Buffalo clover's modest stature reaches about 8-20 inches (20-50 cm) in height.

Lifespan: Annual, Biennial

Plant Type: Herb

Leaf Type: Deciduous

Quickly Identify Buffalo clover

Trifoliate leaf arrangement with elliptical leaflets, each 0.8-2 inches (2-5 cm) long.

Distinctive spherical flower heads with pink to purple blooms, approximately 0.4 inches (1 cm).

Ovoid to oblong-obovoid fruits, 0.2-0.4 inches (5-10 mm), containing 2-4 subtly textured seeds.

Long petioles up to 2 inches (5 cm) holding three smooth, elliptical leaflets with rounded tips.

Ascending stem with purplish color in sunlight, mostly unbranched, less than 0.2 inches (5 mm) thick.

Detailed Traits of Buffalo clover

Leaf Features

The leaves of buffalo clover are characterized by long petioles, extending up to 2 inches (5 cm) in length. Each petiole holds three elliptical leaflets, which exhibit rounded tips. The leaflets are uniformly green, with a smooth texture and a precise elliptical shape. The vein pattern is subtle but symmetrical, contributing to the leaflets' clean, elliptical appearance. These leaves are an essential feature for identifying buffalo clover, with their distinctive trio of smooth, elliptical leaflets and substantial petioles.

Learn About the Leaf Glossary

Flower Features

Buffalo clover features unique flowers that are up to 1.25 inches (3.2 cm) across, blooming from April to May. Each flower possesses a red keel petal and white wing petals, creating a striking pinkish appearance. The petals are distinctively arranged, offering a soft blend of colors. These details make the flowers recognizable and distinguishable, enhancing their appeal for identification by plant enthusiasts.

Learn About the Flower Glossary

Stem Features

The stem of buffalo clover is typically ascending and does not root at the lower nodes. It generally remains unbranched towards the base but may have a few branches. The stem displays a purplish color when exposed to strong sunlight. It is mostly glabrous but can have dense short hairs. The stem is moderately thin, typically less than 0.2 inches (5 mm) in diameter, making it easy to identify.

Learn About the Stem Glossary

Fruit Features

The fruit of buffalo clover is an intriguing botanical feature, prominently presenting itself from May through July. Each fruit, which is ovoid to oblong-obovoid in shape, measures about 0.2 to 0.4 inches (5 to 10 mm) and rests upon diminutive stalks, lending a sense of daintiness to their overall appearance. Within the protective casing of these fruits reside 2 to 4 seeds, safeguarded until they are ready to venture into the soil and begin the cycle anew. The exterior of the fruit, although not vividly colored, possesses a subtly textured surface, quintessential traits that aid in its identification.

Learn About the Fruit Glossary

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