Cup Clover
Trifolium cyathiferumfam. Fabaceae
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Pl. 6A24 — Trifolium cyathiferum
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IOverview
Overview
Cup Clover (Trifolium cyathiferum) is an annual forb or herb native to the Pacific Northwest and western states of North America, including British Columbia, California, Idaho, Montana, Nevada, Oregon, and Washington. This member of the Fabaceae family thrives in moist environments with light requirements ranging from full sun to partial shade. It grows up to 0.5 meters tall and is known for its edible flowers and leaves, which can be used in various culinary applications. Additionally, Cup Clover has a documented history of medicinal use, making it valuable both as an ornamental plant and a source of natural remedies. One distinctive feature of this plant is its ability to adapt to different soil types, including light (sandy), medium, and heavy (clay) soils.
Quick answers
What is Cup Clover?
Cup Clover (Trifolium cyathiferum) is an annual forb or herb native to the Pacific Northwest and western states of North America, including British Columbia, California, Idaho, Montana, Nevada, Oregon, and Washington.
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.
Cup Clover support blend
generaltea
AI returned a direct ingredient list; normalized into one draft blend for editorial review.
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
VCultivation
Cultivation
Cup Clover thrives in full sun and requires moist soil that can be light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay). This annual plant grows to about 0.5 meters tall and is native to regions like British Columbia, California, Idaho, Montana, Nevada, Oregon, and Washington. For propagation, sow seeds directly into the garden bed in spring. Harvest its edible parts—flowers and leaves—for use in culinary applications.
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 Cup Clover for the first time
8steps
Start with Cup Clover as an easy-to-grow annual herb for beginners.
- 1
What you'll need
Seeds, a small trowel or scoop, and a watering can.
- 2
Best time to plant
Plant in early spring after the last frost, or in late summer for fall harvests.
- 3
Soil and container prep
Choose a location with full sun. Prepare soil that is light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay) and moist.
- 4
Sowing or transplanting
Direct sow seeds 0.5 meters apart in the ground or start them indoors and transplant after danger of frost passes.
- 5
First two weeks
Keep soil consistently moist during germination, which takes about 1-2 weeks.
- 6
Ongoing care
Water regularly to maintain moisture. Prune occasionally to encourage bushy growth and prevent legginess.
- 7
Harvest or pruning
Prune flowers and leaves as needed for maintenance, which can also promote more blooms and foliage.
- 8
Common mistakes
Overwatering, planting in too heavy soil, neglecting to prune, and not providing enough sunlight.
VIEdible & utility
Edible & utility
Edible parts:FlowersLeaves
Edible uses: The Cup Clover is edible and its leaves and flowers can be consumed. Typically, the young leaves are gathered and used fresh in salads or cooked as a green vegetable. The flowers may also be eaten raw or added to dishes for a mild flavor.
Other uses:Dynamic accumulatorNitrogen fixer
Contextrange · companions · related
VIIDistribution
7 native · 0 introduced
Distribution
7 native · 0 introducedDistribution across0 continents· 7 native
Broader regions
native:British Columbia, California, Idaho, Montana, Nevada, 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
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