Plant height — Persian clover

For Persian clover, plant height is a key indicator of green mass potential. Plants are measured from the soil surface to the top of the highest leaf or stem tip. The values of this trait depend directly on the subspecies: Trifolium resupinatum var. majus forms upright, hollow stems of significant height, whereas wild forms and var. resupinatum are more often characterized by a prostrate habit and smaller dimensions.

The agronomic value of height is determined by the type of agricultural use. Upright, tall-growing varieties are preferred for mechanized hay and silage harvesting, as they provide maximum yield and ease of harvest. Low-growing, prostrate forms, on the other hand, are better adapted to intensive grazing and possess a high capacity for regeneration after defoliation.