Origin:
Trifolium rusbyi Greene ssp. multipedunculatum (Kennedy) Heller & Zoh. is a native plant of the western United States, found in states such as California, Arizona, Utah, Colorado, and Wyoming.
Common Names:
This plant is commonly known as Rusby's clover or Bluff clover.
Appearance:
Rusby's clover is a small perennial herb that grows up to 20 cm tall. The leaves are trifoliate and ovate to orbicular in shape, with a bluish-green color. The flower heads are spherical and pinkish-white in color, and are held on long, slender stalks that arise from the leaf axils. The flowers bloom in the summer months, from June to August.
Uses:
This species of clover is not commonly used for any specific purpose in modern times. However, some Native American tribes used the plant as a traditional remedy for various ailments. For example, the Navajo used it as an emetic and to treat coughs and colds, while the Washoe used it as a poultice for pain relief. Rusby's clover is also a valuable food source for livestock and wildlife such as deer and rabbits.
Light Requirements
Trifolium rusbyi Greene ssp. multipedunculatum (Kennedy) Heller & Zoh. typically grows best in full sunlight to partial shade exposure. A location that receives at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day is ideal for the plant to thrive. It is important to note that this plant may struggle in excessively shady conditions.
Temperature Requirements
Trifolium rusbyi Greene ssp. multipedunculatum (Kennedy) Heller & Zoh. is a hardy plant and can tolerate a wide range of temperature conditions, making it well-suited for growing in various regions. The plant is typically found in areas with annual temperatures ranging from -5°C to 35°C.
Soil Requirements
Trifolium rusbyi Greene ssp. multipedunculatum (Kennedy) Heller & Zoh. grows best in well-draining soils with a pH of between 6.0 and 7.0. The plant requires fertile soil with an ample supply of organic matter to ensure optimal growth. It is crucial to note that this plant does not tolerate waterlogged conditions and can become susceptible to root rot if planted in soils with poor drainage.
Cultivation Methods
Trifolium rusbyi Greene ssp. multipedunculatum (Kennedy) Heller & Zoh. prefers well-draining, sandy soil with a pH between 6.5 and 7.5. It is a hardy plant that grows well in full sunlight in USDA hardiness zones 5 to 9. Ensure that the soil is moist before planting, and space the plants at least 12 inches apart.
Watering Needs
This species requires moderate watering during its growth period, which runs from late spring to early autumn. During this period, provide the plants with about an inch of water each week. Ensure that the soil is thoroughly soaked, but do not overwater to the point of sogginess. During the winter period when the plants are dormant, reduce watering significantly to avoid rotting their fragile roots.
Fertilization
Trifolium rusbyi Greene ssp. multipedunculatum (Kennedy) Heller & Zoh. are light feeders that seldom require fertilization, especially if grown in rich soils. If the soil is deficient in nutrients, apply balanced fertilizer once in the spring and once in the early fall. Use 10-10-10 fertilizer at a rate of two tablespoons per plant.
Pruning
Regular pruning helps to keep the plants compact and also to prolong their lifespan. Prune Trifolium rusbyi Greene ssp. multipedunculatum (Kennedy) Heller & Zoh. in the spring before new growth begins. Cut back all the old growth to within an inch of the plant's base to encourage vigorous new growth. Deadhead the spent flowers to encourage the plant to bloom for longer periods.
Propagation of Trifolium rusbyi Greene ssp. multipedunculatum (Kennedy) Heller & Zoh.
Trifolium rusbyi Greene ssp. multipedunculatum (Kennedy) Heller & Zoh. can be propagated through several methods such as seeds, cuttings, and division.
Propagation through Seeds
Trifolium rusbyi Greene ssp. multipedunculatum (Kennedy) Heller & Zoh. produces seeds, which can be collected and sown in the fall or spring. The seeds can be sown directly in the desired location, or they can be started indoors in individual pots. Germination usually occurs within 7-14 days.
Propagation through Cuttings
Trifolium rusbyi Greene ssp. multipedunculatum (Kennedy) Heller & Zoh. can also be propagated through stem cuttings. Cuttings should be taken from new growth in the spring or summer. Remove the bottom leaves and dip the cut end in rooting hormone. Place the cutting in a potting mix or soilless medium and keep it moist until new growth appears.
Propagation through Division
Trifolium rusbyi Greene ssp. multipedunculatum (Kennedy) Heller & Zoh. can be propagated through division in the spring or fall. Dig up the plant and gently separate the roots into smaller sections, each with its own shoots and roots. Replant the sections in their new location and water thoroughly.
Disease Management
Trifolium rusbyi ssp. multipedunculatum is a relatively disease-resistant plant species. However, it may still be susceptible to certain diseases:
- Sclerotinia crown and stem rot: This disease is caused by the fungus Sclerotinia trifoliorum. It can cause wilting, yellowing, and death of leaves and stems. To manage this disease, avoid overhead irrigation and maintain good drainage. Also, remove and destroy infected plants and debris.
- Root rot: Root rots are caused by various soilborne fungi. Symptoms include stunted growth, wilting, yellowing of leaves, and plant death. To prevent root rot, avoid waterlogged conditions and improve soil drainage. Also, use disease-free seeds and transplants.
- Leaf spot: Several fungi can cause leaf spots on Trifolium rusbyi ssp. multipedunculatum. Symptoms include brown or black spots on leaves, which may coalesce and cause defoliation. To manage this disease, remove infected leaves and destroy them. Also, avoid overhead irrigation and thin crowded plantings to improve air circulation.
Pest Management
Trifolium rusbyi ssp. multipedunculatum is relatively free from serious pest problems. However, some pests can still damage the plant:
- Aphids: Aphids are small, soft-bodied insects that suck sap from plant tissues. Symptoms include distorted leaves, stunted growth, and honeydew excretion. To control aphids, spray the plants with a strong stream of water or insecticidal soap.
- Spider mites: Spider mites are small arachnids that suck sap from plant tissues. Symptoms include yellowing of leaves, webbing, and plant defoliation. To control spider mites, spray the plants with a strong stream of water or an acaricide.
- Cutworms: Cutworms are the larvae of several species of moths. They cut off young seedlings at or near the soil line. To control cutworms, use collars around the base of the plants or apply insecticides at the base of the plants.
