Large Hop Clover

Trifolium campestre

Large Hop Clover is a winter annual broadleaf weed that is also commonly known as Field Clover, Pinnate Hop Clovers or by its scientific name, Trifolium campestre.

Identify

Alternate

Pinnately Trifoliolate

Obovate

Large Hop Clover can be identified by its hairy, branched stems that are green or reddish-green in color. Each leaf consists of three leaflets that are toothed from mid-blade to the tip. In bloom, this broadleaf weed produces bright-yellow flowers growing in loose clusters on long stalks that are attached at the leaf axils.

Life Cycle

Large Hop Clover is frequently found in lawns, gardens and any disturbed sites: waste areas, abandoned or fallow farmlands, pastures, open woods and along roadsides. This broadleaf weed is found throughout much of the continental United States.

Control

Proper cultural practices, such as proper mowing and watering, can help to prevent Trifolium campestreby creating dense grass, which inhibits this broadleaf weed's ability to grow. Physical removal (i.e., pulling weeds) can be effective, though you run the risk of spreading the seeds to additional areas of your lawn.