gräsklöver

Gräsklöver, scientifically known as Trifolium repens, is a perennial herbaceous legume commonly found in temperate regions worldwide. It is also known by several other names, including white clover, Dutch clover, and Ladino clover. This low-growing plant is characterized by its trifoliate leaves, meaning each leaf is divided into three leaflets. The leaflets are typically oval or heart-shaped and often display a lighter colored, V-shaped marking. Small, dense flower heads, usually white or pale pink, appear in late spring and summer, attracting pollinators like bees.

Gräsklöver plays a significant role in agriculture and horticulture. As a legume, it has the ability to fix atmospheric nitrogen through a symbiotic relationship with Rhizobium bacteria in its root nodules. This process enriches the soil with nitrogen, benefiting itself and surrounding plants. Consequently, it is frequently used as a cover crop and in pasture mixtures for livestock grazing, as it improves soil fertility and provides nutritious forage. In lawns, it is sometimes considered a weed due to its creeping growth habit and ability to outcompete turfgrass, but it can also contribute to lawn resilience by fixing nitrogen and attracting beneficial insects. The plant is also edible and has been used in traditional medicine in some cultures.