Clover Applique

Clover is a genus of plants. It belongs to the subfamily of the papilionaceous plants (Faboideae) of the legume family (Fabaceae). In linguistic usage, however, not only species of this genus are often referred to as "clover", but also species from the closely related genera snail clover (Medicago) and sweet clover (Melilotus), as well as from the taxonomically distant genus wood sorrel (Oxalis).

Characteristic features of the genus are trifoliate leaves and many-flowered, capitate inflorescences. In agriculture, various species of clover are used as forage crops. Clover cultivation is of economic importance in both Europe and North America. In Europe, meadow clover (Trifolium pratense) was cultivated as early as the 4th century. Clover is also significant for improving soil fertility due to its ability to fix nitrogen from the air at the roots in symbiosis with nodule bacteria (Rhizobiaceae).

The clover leaf found its way into the symbolism of many cultures. It always represents the trinity, such as in Christianity as a symbol of the Trinity. Furthermore, clover stands for summer or symbolizes love. The four-leaf clover is considered a lucky charm.