Distinguishing Characteristics

Clovers differ from one another in

duration, habit of growth, persistence in growth, their power to endure

low or warm temperatures, and ability to maintain a hold upon the soil.

Of the varieties named, alfalfa, the small white and alsike varieties

are perennial. That most intensely so is the first variety named. The

medium red and mammoth varieties are biennial, but sometimes they assume

the perennial quality. Sweet clover is biennial. The crimson, Japan and

burr varieties are annual.



Some varieties, as alfalfa, crimson and sweet clover, are upright in

their habit of growth. Others, as the small white and the burr, are

recumbent. Others again, as the medium red, alsike and mammoth, are

spreading and upright. The alfalfa and medium red varieties grow most

persistently through the whole season. The sweet, small white and alsike

varieties can best endure cold, and the sweet, Japan and burr varieties

can best endure heat. The small white, Japan, burr and sweet clovers

stand highest in ability to maintain a hold upon the soil.



The minor points of difference are such as relate to the shape and color

of the leaves, the tints of shade that characterize the leaflets, the

shape and size of the heads and the distinguishing shades of color in

the blossoms.



The characteristics which they possess in common are the high protein

content found in them, the marked palatability of the pasture and hay,

unless in the sweet and burr varieties, the power which they have to

enrich and otherwise improve soils, and the honey which they furnish.