Rabbits-foot Clover Trifolium arvense

Hair-foot clover is an annual or biannual in the legume family that is native to Europe and western Asia and is found in all areas of NC.   Its common name Hare's-foot clover is a direct reference to its flowers, which resemble a hare's paw or tail.  It can easily be identified by its fuzzy flower heads.  It is found in sandy soils at the edge of fields, roadways, sand dunes, vineyards and orchards. It is widespread in the eastern and pacific areas of North America. 

It is a nitrogen-fixation plant and has been used as a cover crop in low-nitrogen soils. Sheep and goats will graze the leaves. It is also considered an invasive plant in other areas. Grows best in sun to partial sun in sandy soils.

Insects, Diseases, and Other Plant Problems:  This plant reseeds itself and can become invasive in favorable locations such as sandy disturbed areas.  Wind-blown seeds can quickly germinate, allowing the plant to form large colonies.  Its hard seed coating allows the seed to overwinter and begin to germinate as the temperatures become favorable.  Domestic livestock and horses can develop abdominal obstructions by consuming this plant. It is classified as an invasive species by the NC Invasive Plant Council.