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Japanese clover
Also known as: Japanese lespedeza, Japanese bush-clover
The japanese clover is a green plant native to East Asia that also spread across the United States, especially after the Civil War. It has proven effective in revegetating areas around abandoned coal mines to support soil health. It is also used to this day to prevent erosion.
Scientific classification
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Weeds
Weed or not
Annual
Lifespan
Herb
Plant Type
Summer
Bloom Time
Fall
Harvest Time
30 cm to 41 cm
Plant Height
Green, Purple
Stem Color
Winter dormancy
Dormancy
Deciduous
Leaf type
20 - 35 ℃
Ideal Temperature
Summer
Growth Season
Moderate
Growth Rate

Images of Japanese clover

Distribution of Japanese clover

Distribution Map
Japanese clover is a plant which is native to Eastern Asia. Its natural range encompasses temperate to tropical regions on this continent. Additionally, japanese clover has been introduced to various parts of the Southern Hemisphere and Eastern Europe, where it is now found growing in the wild.
Native
Cultivated
Invasive
Introduced
No species reported
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Habitat
Waste ground, roadsides, riverbanks
Hemisphere Trend Curve

Culture

Symbolism
Good luck, good fortune, be mine, faith, hope, love
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Weed Control

Japanese clover, more commonly known as Japanese clover, originated from East Asia. This plant is classified as a weed due to its aggressive growth patterns and invasive characteristics. Its quick reproductive rate and ability to flourish in diverse climatic conditions make it troublesome, especially to gardens. Japanese clover is highly competitive for nutrients, light, and soil space, out-competing native plants and negatively impacting biodiversity. The primary agent of its propagation is through seeds, usually carried away by wind or water flow, or transmitted via animals, clothing, and equipment. Once established, it can form dense mats suffocating other plants and altering ecosystems' structural and functional aspects. Its robust root system also enables survive even in adverse conditions, contributing to its weed status.
How to Control It
The best season to remove japanese clover is late spring or early summer, before the plant has a chance to set seed. The plant should be removed before it reaches the flowering state to prevent further spread.
  1. Hand Pulling: This is a simple and effective way to control small infestations of japanese clover. Be sure to wear gloves and pull the plant out by the roots, to prevent regrowth.
  2. Regular Mowing: For larger infestations, regular mowing before the plant has a chance to flower can help to control it. Mow the area frequently, as japanese clover can re-grow quickly.
  3. Sheet Mulching: Cover the infested area with cardboard or several layers of newspaper, then pile a thick layer of organic mulch on top. This will block sunlight and suppress the growth of japanese clover.
  4. Vinegar Spray: Mix a solution of 10% vinegar and water, and spray it on the leaves of the japanese clover. Be careful not to spray on desirable plants, as vinegar can harm them too.
  5. Introduce Competing Plants: Plant fast-growing, aggressive species in the same area as the japanese clover to out-compete it for resources.
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Quickly Identify Japanese clover

1
Trifoliate leaves with oblong-elliptic leaflet blades, 0.5-1 inch (1.3-2.5 cm) long.
2
Purple stems covered in downward-pointing white hairs for a rough texture.
3
Small, pink/purple lower petal, white upper petals of 1/4 inch (6 mm) flowers.
4
Elongated legume fruits, 0.2 inch (5 mm), tan to brown, single-seeded.
5
Flowers bloom in groups of 1-3 with distinctive pea flower shape.
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Care Guide for Japanese clover

Every week
Water
Full sun
Sunlight
20 - 35 ℃
Ideal Temperature
Water: Japanese clover thrives in humid, temperate climates, preferring consistent moisture. It is moderately drought-tolerant but flourishes with evenly damp soil. Weekly watering is ideal. Typically grown outdoors, japanese clover shows resilience across various climate zones, excelling in areas mimicking its native rainfall and dry periods.
Propagation: Japanese clover thrives in Spring sowing for optimal propagation, marked by vigorous seedling growth. Essential tips include ensuring sufficient moisture and using well-draining soil for best results.
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