Crimson Clover

Also known as 'Italian Clover', 'Crimson Clover' is a hardy annual that can grow to thirty six inches tall with broad oval leaflets. The flowers are in dense, crimson spikes to 2-1/2 inches long. Originated in Europe. It prefers full sun to partial shade and moderate to moist soils. Although it is attractive as an ornamental, it is typically used as a cover crop, pasture forage, hay, and in crop rotation plans. It is excellent for erosion control and wildlife habitat plantings.

As a cover crop, 'Crimson Clover' is excellent for improving the texture and fertility of the soil. It can return as much as one hundred pounds of nitrogen per acre when it is cultivated under as a green manure. 1/4 ounce is approximately 1,500 seeds and covers about 75 square feet.