Trifolium wormskioldii var. longicaule (Wooton & Standl.) L.D.Benson

Taxon Identification

This taxon is Trifolium wormskioldii var. longicaule (Wooton & Standl.) L.D.Benson, a variety of the legume species Trifolium wormskioldii.

Growth Form

Trifolium wormskioldii is a perennial herb that sometimes grows in a matlike form, with either decumbent or upright stems.

Leaflet Characteristics

Its leaves are composed of leaflets 1 to 3 centimetres (1⁄2 to 1+1⁄4 inches) long.

Stipule Characteristics

Lower stipules end in bristly tips, while upper stipules may be toothed.

Inflorescence Characteristics

The rounded inflorescences are 2 to 3 cm (3⁄4 to 1+1⁄4 in) wide, with bristle-tipped sepals.

Corolla Coloration

The corollas are pinkish purple or magenta with white tips.

Geographic Range

This species is native to the western half of North America, ranging from Alaska through California to Mexico.

Elevation Range

As a perennial herb, it grows in a wide variety of locales, from beaches to mountain ridges, at elevations below approximately 3,200 metres (10,500 ft).

Habitat Types

Habitats where it grows include chaparral, oak woodland, grassland, yellow pine forest, red fir forest, lodgepole forest, subalpine forest, and wetland-riparian areas.

Traditional Food Use

Many Native American groups in western North America use this clover as food.

Aerial Part Preparation

The herbage and flowers are eaten raw, and are sometimes salted.

Root Preparation

The roots are most often steamed or boiled, then eaten with fish, fish eggs, and fish grease.

Host Plant Role

This species acts as a host plant for caterpillars of the Western cloudywing butterfly (Thorybes diversus).