red clover
Trifolium pratense                                    

Identifying Characteristics:

Seed:   mitten shape; size varies from 1.9 to 2.3 mm long and 1.4 to 2.0 mm wide; wider than sweetclover seed; color varies from light yellow to dark purple; color gradient can often be seen on a single seed

Seedling:  trifoliate leaves; oblong leaflet shape; very hairy leaves and stem 

Mature Plant: erect growth habit; leaflets will often have white watermark; smooth leaf margins; leaves directly below flower head; rose to magenta flowers; striped stipules

Method of Propagation: seed

Life Cycle: cool-season biennial

Similar Species: crimson clover – crimson clover will not have leaves directly below the flower head, arrowleaf clover – compare leaf shapes and hairiness

References: Abaye, A. Ozzie. "Identification & Adaption: Common Grasses, Legumes & Non-leguminous Forbs of the Eastern United States."
Moore, Kenneth J. “Compendium of Common Forages.” From “Forages: An Introduction to Grassland Agriculture.”