The lush nordic Red Clover

As the warmth of late summer extends its arms into early fall, many of the usual wildflowers have long said their goodbyes. But just when you think the color palette of nature is winding down, the Red Clover springs forth in a profusion of bulbous, pinkish glory. Found in the nooks and crannies of fields and cuddled against hedgerows, Red Clover brings with it a kind of whimsy that only a wildflower can.

Its dainty bulb-shaped flowers seem to nod approvingly at you, a welcome pop of color when the wild world seems to be deep in greens and browns. The shades of its blooms can run the gamut from a delicate whitish-pink to a vivid, almost neon, pink—each one like a tiny painting framed by lush foliage. Cut a few stems and you’ll find that they sit quite comfortably and elegantly in a vase. They don't wilt easily, which makes them excellent table companions for longer periods.

It's worth noting that Red Clover often blooms around the same time as many herbs. It’s a curious and delightful mix, watching those pink blossoms stand tall amid flowering peppermint or late-season goldenrod. It's as though Mother Nature decided to throw us a late-summer floral cocktail party, complete with a dash of color and a sprinkle of whimsy.