Family: Fabaceae
High Risk Traits:
- Naturalized in regions with tropical to subtropical climates (native range unknown)
- Reported to be a weed in some crops (although impacts have not been specified or quantified)
- Other Trifolium species have become invasive
- Contains chemicals that may cause infertility if consumed exclusively by animals
- Tolerates a wide range of soils
- Reproduces exclusively by seeds
- Some genotypes may be self-compatible
- Seeds dispersed intentionally by people and potentially as a seed contaminant
- Seeds able to be stored for extended periods; May form a persistent seed bank
- Can be repeatedly cut, but plants are annuals and will only persist for one growing season
Low Risk Traits:
- Despite naturalization and reports of weediness, negative impacts have not been specified or quantified
- Unarmed (no spines, thorns, or burrs)
- Palatable and provides fodder for livestock
- Thrives in full sun (dense shade may inhibit ability to spread)
- Not reported to spread vegetatively
- Herbicides may provide effective control if needed