Sour Clover
IOverview
Overview
Sour Clover (Trifolium fucatum) is a light-loving annual plant native to the coastal regions of California, Oregon, and Washington. Known for its edible properties, it thrives in moist environments with light, medium, or heavy soil types. This herbaceous forb can grow up to 0.6 meters tall and is distinguished by its trifoliate leaves, each leaflet finely serrated and often tinged with red. Its flowers are small and white, forming dense clusters that add a touch of elegance to the landscape. While primarily valued for its edible parts—flowers, leaves, and seeds—it also serves as an ornamental addition to gardens in these regions.
What is Sour Clover?
Sour Clover (Trifolium fucatum) is a light-loving annual plant native to the coastal regions of California, Oregon, and Washington. Known for its edible properties, it thrives in moist environments with light, medium, or heavy soil types. This herbaceous forb can grow up to 0.
What is Sour Clover used for?
Traditionally used for immune support, digestion. Each claim is evidence-rated — see Section II for full citations.
IIBenefits & evidence
2 claims · traditional-use context
Benefits & evidence
2 claims · traditional-use context- Sour Clover, similar to other Trifolium species, has been traditionally used as an adjunct for immune support. A tea made from the leaves or flowers may help maintain overall health during seasonal changes.
The mechanism is not fully characterised but likely involves compounds that have mild immunomodulatory effects.
▲ ModerateImmune support → - Sour Clover, like other clovers in the genus Trifolium, has been traditionally used for digestive issues such as bloating and indigestion. A decoction of the leaves or flowers may help soothe an upset stomach.
The mechanism is not fully characterised but likely involves compounds that have mild carminative properties.
▲ ModerateDigestion →
IV·bMixology suggestions
1 draft
Mixology suggestions
1 draftVCultivation
Cultivation
How to grow Sour Clover for the first time
Start with Sour 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 spring after the last frost, when soil is warm.
- 3
Soil and container prep
Choose a spot with full sun. Ensure the soil is well-draining but moisture-retentive.
- 4
Sowing or transplanting
Direct sow seeds 0.5 cm deep, spacing them about 15 cm apart. Alternatively, start indoors and transplant after danger of frost passes.
- 5
First two weeks
Keep the soil consistently moist until germination. Water less frequently once established.
- 6
Ongoing care
Water when the top inch of soil feels dry. Mulch to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
- 7
Harvest or pruning
Prune regularly to encourage bushy growth and prevent legginess. Harvest leaves, flowers, and seed heads as needed.
- 8
Common mistakes
Overwatering, planting in heavy clay soil, neglecting regular pruning.
VIEdible & utility
Edible & utility
VIIDistribution
3 native · 0 introduced
Distribution
3 native · 0 introducedIXSpecimen gallery
1 image
Specimen gallery
1 imageXSee also
8 related
See also
8 relatedPlants you might compare or use together — scored by shared family, common use cases, and growing requirements.
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