Foothill Clover
Trifolium ciliatumfam. Fabaceae
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Pl. 1378 — Trifolium ciliatum
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IOverview
Overview
Foothill Clover, scientifically known as Trifolium ciliatum and belonging to the Fabaceae family, is a native annual plant found in California, Oregon, and Washington. This forb or herb typically grows up to 0.5 meters tall and thrives in moist conditions with light requirements of full sun. It prefers light (sandy), medium, and heavy (clay) soils. Foothill Clover is both edible and medicinal; its leaves and seeds are commonly consumed. The plant has been documented for its use in traditional medicine, making it a valuable resource in the regions where it grows. One distinctive feature of this clover species is its adaptability to various soil types, allowing it to flourish across different environments within its native range.
Quick answers
What is Foothill Clover?
Foothill Clover, scientifically known as Trifolium ciliatum and belonging to the Fabaceae family, is a native annual plant found in California, Oregon, and Washington. This forb or herb typically grows up to 0.5 meters tall and thrives in moist conditions with light requirements of full sun.
IV·bMixology suggestions
1 draft
Mixology suggestions
1 draftEditorial drafts. These pairings are AI-suggested from traditional herbal lore. Always verify with a qualified herbalist before brewing.
Foothill Clover support blend
generaltea
AI returned a direct ingredient list; normalized into one draft blend for editorial review.
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
VCultivation
Cultivation
Foothill Clover thrives in full sun and prefers moist soil that is light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay). It grows to a height of 0.5 meters as an annual forb/herb. For best results, sow the seeds directly where they will grow, ensuring the soil remains consistently moist. This plant is native to California, Oregon, and Washington and can be propagated through seed. Given its natural habitat in these regions, it is hardy in temperate areas but may require specific care elsewhere. The edible parts include leaves and seeds.
Light
Full sun
Water
Moist
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium, Heavy (clay)
Life cycle
Annual
Habit
Forb/herb
Mature size
0.5 m tall
For first-time growers
How to grow Foothill Clover for the first time
8steps
Start with Foothill Clover as a simple annual plant, focusing on basic care and harvesting.
- 1
What you'll need
Seeds or seedlings of Foothill Clover.
- 2
Best time to plant
Plant in spring after the last frost, when soil temperatures are warm.
- 3
Soil and container prep
Choose a location with full sun. Prepare loose, well-draining soil.
- 4
Sowing or transplanting
Direct sow seeds 0.5 cm deep in rows 30-45 cm apart. Alternatively, start seedlings indoors and transplant after danger of frost passes.
- 5
First two weeks
Keep soil moist until germination. Thin plants to 15-20 cm apart once established.
- 6
Ongoing care
Water regularly during dry spells, especially in clay soils. Mulch lightly if needed.
- 7
Harvest or pruning
Prune back after flowering to encourage new growth and prevent self-seeding.
- 8
Common mistakes
Overwatering, planting too deep, neglecting to thin seedlings.
VIEdible & utility
Edible & utility
Edible parts:LeavesSeed
Edible uses: The leaves and seeds of Foothill Clover are edible. The leaves can be eaten raw or cooked, while the seeds are typically harvested and used in soups or ground into flour for baking. Both parts add a mild flavor to dishes.
Other uses:Dynamic accumulatorNitrogen fixer
Contextrange · companions · related
VIIDistribution
3 native · 0 introduced
Distribution
3 native · 0 introducedDistribution across0 continents· 3 native
Broader regions
native:California, Oregon, Washington
IXSpecimen gallery
1 image
Specimen gallery
1 imageXSee also
8 related
See also
8 relatedPlants you might compare or use together — scored by shared family (Fabaceae), common use cases, and growing requirements.
same family · Fabaceae
Botanical relatives — often share phytochemistry + growing needs.
XI
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Companion planting
Compare with similar plants
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Back to the cataloguePlant id · 137840c1-4306-43fa-8ca1-4cff0b844b01
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