Red Feather Clover
Trifolium purpurascens
Not currently listed at our partner nurseries.
Essentials
At a Glance
Plant Type
Perennial
Height
18 inches
Width
15 inches
Light
Full Sun, Partial Sun
Zones
4, 5, 6, 7, 8
Water
Moderate
Humidity
Average
Lifespan
Perennial
Native To
Europe
Toxicity
Non-toxic
The Story
Plant Bio
Trifolium rubens, commonly known as red feather clover, is a clump-forming perennial with trifoliate leaves and distinctive, elongated, brush-like flower heads of purplish-red flowers. Valued for its unique, ornamental, bottlebrush-like flower heads that provide long-lasting color in the garden. It is an excellent pollinator plant.
Uses & Benefits:
Marketplace
Where to Buy
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Planting
How to Grow
- Tuck seeds into well-drained soil in early spring for best germination.
- Mist cuttings regularly to maintain humidity and encourage root growth.
- Transplant seedlings when they are strong enough, typically after 6 weeks.
- Fertilize lightly during active growth with a balanced organic fertilizer.
- Mulch around plants to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
- Prune after flowering to promote bushiness and remove dead growth.
Pro Tip
Use well-drained, slightly acidic soil and ensure full sun for optimal growth.
Keep It Thriving
Care Guide
Do
- Water regularly to keep soil moist but not waterlogged 🌱
- Prune to shape and remove dead or damaged stems
- Fertilize in early spring with organic compost
- Mulch to conserve moisture and temperature
- Monitor for pests and treat promptly
Don't
- Avoid overwatering, which can cause root rot ❌
- Don’t neglect pruning after flowering
- Never plant in heavy clay soil without amendments
- Avoid excessive fertilization to prevent weak growth
- Don’t ignore pest infestations
Seasonal Care Calendar
| Task | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Divide | ||||||||||||
| Prune | ||||||||||||
| Spring Cleanup |
Watch Out For
Pests & Diseases
Common Pests
Common Diseases
In the Garden
Landscape Uses & Companions
Landscape Uses
Companion Plants
Multiply
Propagation Methods
Good to Know
Common Questions
Red Feather Clover questions
What zones can Red Feather Clover grow in?
Red Feather Clover is hardy in USDA Zones 4–8. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.
Is Red Feather Clover deer resistant?
Yes — Red Feather Clover is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.
When does Red Feather Clover bloom?
Red Feather Clover typically blooms in late spring to mid-summer through early summer. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.
Does Red Feather Clover need full sun?
Red Feather Clover does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.
Is Red Feather Clover drought tolerant?
Yes — once established (usually after the first full season), Red Feather Clover handles dry spells with minimal watering. Water deeply its first year to build the root system that makes that possible.
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Grow Red Feather Clover with confidence
See it in a design of your actual yard, get zone-matched care reminders, and track it season by season in your garden journal.
