Crimson Clover

 
I first encountered this plant in Alabama last year. The astounding color blew me away, but I assumed it was a southern plant- obviously a clover- and I found so many new ones I couldn't begin to identify them all. I knew it had to be some kind of clover. It's common name is Crimson Clover, Trifolium incarnatum



But then, when I was driving home yesterday, I saw this field. The color matched. I couldn't believe it! I turned around and went back to take pictures.



Oh my gosh! It's the same plant. And apparently planted in purpose in a whole field.



Here's a nice close up of the flower.



So, what's the deal? Well, this is an alien plant, from Europe... Hmm. It's agricultural. It's used as a forage crop, and as a ground cover. The bad news is that it can become invasive. It is edible for humans too. It's supposedly more successful in the south. So, although it's very pretty, I really don't want another invasive species.

Mixed bag of characteristics, but at least I know what it is.

In other news: I wrote all morning, did bookwork in the afternoon, then the Celebrate Scottville event, and a meeting this evening. Enough

	See Red and White Clover
if you like this blog, click