View source for Running Buffalo Clover

{{Taxobox
| color = lightgreen
| name = Running Buffalo Clover
| image = Trifolium stoloniferum.jpg
| image_width = 200px
| status = {{StatusEndangered}}
| regnum = [[Plant]]ae
| divisio = [[Flowering plant|Magnoliophyta]]
| classis = [[Magnoliopsida]]
| ordo = [[Fabales]]
| familia = [[Fabaceae]]
| subfamilia = [[Faboideae]]
| genus = ''[[Trifolium]]''
| species = '''''T. stoloniferum'''''
| binomial = ''Trifolium stoloniferum''
| binomial_authority = Muhl. ex A. Eaton
}}

'''Running Buffalo Clover''' (''Trifolium stoloniferum'') is an [[endangered species]] of perennial [[clover]] native to the eastern and midwestern [[United States]].

This plant has erect, unbranched flowering stems, typically 10-50 cm (4-20 in) tall. The apex of the stem is topped by a round [[flower]] head, subtended by two [[Leaf|leaves]]. These apical leaves are typically larger than those found on stems without flowers. The flower heads are white, sometimes tinged with purple, and 2-2.5 cm diameter.

Like other clovers, Running Buffalo Clover has leaves divided into three leaflets. It sends out long creeping runners (stolons) from its base, which grow along the ground and take root. The stems and leaves are hairless. It flowers from mid-May to June and fruits in July. 

===Habitat===
The original habitat of this plant is believed to have been areas of rich [[soil]]s in open areas among forests and prairies. Grazing [[bison]] probably maintained these open areas while migrating along established trails. The clover was apparently once widespread across much of the midwestern U.S.

===Threats===
The reasons for this plant's decline are not known for certain, but they are believed to be directly related to the disappearance of large [[herbivore]]s from the plant's habitat. This species appears to have been dependent upon the woodland disturbance created by large animals, especially the bison. Many of the species' old records were in proximity to bison licks and trails. Other causes include trampling by unknowing people and competition from introduced species.

== References ==
* [http://endangered.fws.gov/i/q/saq4a.html U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Division of Endangered Species]
* [http://mdc.mo.gov/nathis/endangered/endanger/clover/ Endangered Species Guidesheet - Running Buffalo Clover]

[[Category:Faboideae|Clover, Running Buffalo]]