Buffalo Clover
Trifolium reflexum
Last reviewed: June 2026
Light
part sun
Water
medium
Size
12"–24" H × 12"–24" W
Bloom
Apr, May, Jun
Native to
AL, AR, FL, GA and 21 more states
Pollinators
bees, butterflies
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Buffalo clover is a native perennial that forms compact clumps with distinctive three-leaflet foliage. It produces small white to pink flower clusters in spring and early summer, creating a neat groundcover appearance.
In an HOA neighborhood
Buffalo Clover takes more care to keep looking intentional in a front yard. Maintenance level: low. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.
Works well in: backyard only.
- Clover species often perceived as weedy by HOAs
- May spread beyond intended areas
- Can look sparse or patchy during establishment
Wildlife value
The flowers attract native bees and butterflies during its April through June bloom period. As a legume, it also helps fix nitrogen in the soil naturally.
Common questions
- How much sun does Buffalo Clover need?
- Buffalo Clover grows best in part sun conditions.
- When does Buffalo Clover bloom?
- Buffalo Clover blooms in April, May, and June.
- Where is Buffalo Clover native?
- Buffalo Clover (Trifolium reflexum) is native to AL, AR, FL, GA and 21 more states, per the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists.
- What pollinators does Buffalo Clover attract?
- Buffalo Clover draws bees and butterflies.
- Is Buffalo Clover HOA-friendly?
- Buffalo Clover takes more care to look intentional in a front yard. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.
Native range data from the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists. Pollinator and host plant associations compiled from GBIF, iNaturalist, and published ecological literature.
Ready to grow Buffalo Clover? Add it to your garden in Pollinator Patch to track it and get season-by-season care guidance.
Not sure where to start? Take the 2-minute yard quiz