About Trifolium reflexum L.
Trifolium reflexum L., commonly known as buffalo clover, is a species of clover native to the Eastern United States. It grows in natural open habitats such as woodlands, glades, and prairies, and is often found in acidic soil. It is an annual or biennial plant that produces white to dark pink flowers in late spring. During the early period of European colonization of the Americas, records note that clover species, very likely including T. reflexum and related species like T. stoloniferum, made up a major component of plant life in meadows and open woodlands. These clovers were frequently found growing alongside river cane, nettles, and other legumes. Like many native clover species native to the Eastern United States, T. reflexum populations have declined considerably over the past 200 years. Fire suppression is identified as a significant cause of this species' decline. Research has found that controlled burns stimulate seed germination in T. reflexum.
