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Tomcat Clover

Trifolium willdenovii

Last reviewed: June 2026

Tomcat Clover (Trifolium willdenovii)
Photo: (c) Justin Paulin, some rights reserved (CC BY), uploaded by Justin Paulin

Tomcat Clover (Trifolium willdenovii) is not on the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center toxic plant list for dogs or cats (aspca.org, last reviewed 2026-05-21). If your pet shows symptoms after eating any plant, call the ASPCA at (888) 426-4435.

Light

full sun

Water

low

Size

4"–16" H × 4"–12" W

Bloom

Mar, Apr, May, Jun

Native to

AZ, CA, ID, OR and 1 more states

Pollinators

bees, butterflies

Tomcat clover is a low-growing annual wildflower with distinctive purple-pink flower heads. It blooms from early spring through early summer, creating a charming seasonal display. This clover thrives in full sun with low water requirements once established.

In an HOA neighborhood

Tomcat Clover is an HOA-friendly choice in the right placement. Maintenance level: moderate. Tidiness: 2 out of 5.

Works well in: mid zone, backyard only.

  • Annual nature means seasonal dieback
  • May spread unpredictably in some landscapes
  • Can look somewhat informal/meadow-like

Wildlife value

Tomcat clover attracts various bee species including native bumblebees and honeybees. Butterflies also visit the flowers for nectar.

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.

Does Tomcat Clover fit your yard? Open it in Pollinator Patch to check it against your sun, soil, and HOA-conscious filters.