Traveling on I26 toward Spartanburg, SC. Plants are growing randomly beside the road. Head is read about 2 inches long, Faint sweet smell. Leaves are in threes, clover look. Any idea what they are? Thanks
Hi Connie,
this is a type of clover, called Crimson clover, Trifolium incarnatum. It is commonly seen along roadsides and is often planted by the highway department; it also spreads on its own along roadsides. A striking non-native herb.
I often think of this song when I see it: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=B2fI3-f1IbE
Sincerely,
Steve Hill, Botanist, SCNPS