Hardly any wild herb is given as much importance as clover, or rather a rare gene mutation of this plant. Even in the Middle Ages, a four-leaf clover sewn onto clothing was supposed to protect travelers from misfortune. But why is clover considered a lucky charm?
What significance does clover have in different cultures and agriculture?
The meaning of clover lies in various cultures such as Christianity and Celtic, with the three-leaf clover symbolizing the Trinity of God, and the rare four-leaf clover representing good luck and protection. Additionally, clover has agricultural benefits such as nitrogen enrichment and fodder use.
In which cultures does clover have a special meaning?
Clover, or rather the shamrock, has had a special meaning in different cultures for hundreds of years, for example among theCeltsandin ChristianityIn Ireland, the three-leaf clover is even a national symbol. In agriculture, meadow clover or red clover also has an important role as green manure and as a fodder crop that should not be underestimated. Some species are even said to have healing properties.
What significance does the shamrock have in Christianity?
In Christianity, the cloverleaf has amultiple meaning: The three-leaf clover stands for the Trinity of God, while the four-leaf clover is supposed to symbolize the cross, but also stands for the four evangelists. Many Christians believe that Eve took a four-leaf clover with her from paradise, as a souvenir, so to speak. For these people, the clover is considered a “piece of paradise”, but of course only a four-leaf clover.
Why is clover a symbol of luck?
Perhaps its meaning as a symbol of good luck may be based primarily on the Christian faith, but for farmers in the Middle Ages, meadow clover also had avery practical value Enriched by a symbiosis with so-called nodule bacteria It enriches the soil with nitrogen and acts as a natural fertilizer. In addition, the butterfly plant is a versatile food plant. Since four-leaf clovers are rare in nature, finding one takes a lot of luck.
What's special about lucky clover?
The lucky clover (bot. Oxalis tetraphylla), which comes from Mexico, isnaturally four-leafed, which is why it is often given as a gift on New Year's Eve. It can be recognized by the dark, reddish leaf base. Lucky clover not only differs significantly from meadow clover in appearance, but also belongs to a completely different genus of plants. While meadow clover is part of the legume family and is considered edible, lucky clover is a member of the wood sorrel family. Excessive consumption can lead to diarrhea due to the oxalic acid it contains, similar to rhubarb.
Tip
Don’t just throw away the lucky clover
Did you get a lucky clover for New Year's Eve? Then don't just throw it away. Although the plant is not winter hardy, it is perennial. In summer you can put the pot in the garden or on the balcony and enjoy beautiful pink flowers in summer.
