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Clover facts for kids

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Clover
Trefle2.1s.JPG
clover inflorescence
Scientific classification
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Trifolieae
Genus:
Trifolium

Species

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Clover (Trifolium) is a type of plant. It belongs to the pea family and includes about 300 different kinds, or species. You can find clover growing all over the world. It is common in cooler parts of the Northern Hemisphere. Many types also grow in South America and Africa. Some even grow high up on mountains in warm areas.

Clover plants are usually small. They are called herbaceous plants because they have soft stems, not woody ones like trees. Each clover leaf usually has three parts, which makes it look like three small leaves joined together. This is known as being trifoliate.

Clover as a Symbol

Clover is a very well-known plant. It is often linked to the Shamrock. The shamrock is a traditional symbol of Ireland. Legend says that Saint Patrick used a clover to explain the Holy Trinity.

Four-Leaf Clovers

Most clover leaves have three parts. But sometimes, you might find a clover with four parts! These four-leaf clovers are rare. Because they are so unusual, many people think they bring good luck.

Clovers can even have five, six, or more leaflets. These are even rarer than four-leaf clovers. The record for the most leaflets on a single clover is 56. This amazing clover was found on May 10, 2009.

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See also

Kids robot.svg In Spanish: Trébol para niños

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