The Meaning and Symbolism of Clover
This topic delves into the symbolism and meaning of clover and provides information on how to grow it, for those interested netizens. Below, the editor will give you a detailed explanation.
Clover is a familiar plant to many, known as "lucky grass." Its scientific name is Oxalis, also called sour grass. The commonly seen clover with pink flowers in China has leaves composed of three inverted heart-shaped small leaves, and occasionally, individuals with four leaves may appear due to mutations. With a little observation, it can be found in various places such as grasslands, hillside meadows, roadsides, field edges, wastelands, river valleys, and shady areas under forests.
Clover
Clover is treasured for its many uses and is loved by people.
"Snack" Clover
In rural areas, clover is a treasure for children. As kids, we couldn't afford snacks, so clover became our snack. We often picked clover from the sides of roads and fields, and the entire stem and leaves could be eaten raw, with a very sour and refreshing taste (hence the name sour grass). Most of the time, we picked a large handful to eat cold with a mix of salt and chili sauce, making it spicy and delicious.
Clover
What we cherished even more were the roots of clover, which we called "crystal radishes." Armed with a small spade or a stick, we would dig at the roadside, and some had "crystal radishes" underneath, while others didn't, some were large, and others were small, all depending on luck. After washing them clean, we would eat them as a snack, crystal clear and very sweet.
Crystal Radishes
"Chinese Medicine" Clover
Clover is a type of Chinese medicinal herb with the effects of clearing heat and dampness, reducing swelling and resolving blood stasis, and cooling blood to detoxify. The whole plant is used as medicine, effectively treating conditions such as internal damp heat, difficulty urinating, hemoptysis and hematuria, sore throat, and dermatitis and eczema. It can also be used to treat fractures, snake bites, and burns and scalds.
In addition, clover has good antibacterial properties and inhibits many bacteria.
Besides its edible and medicinal values, clover also has certain ornamental value. It is often used as a potted plant and is very beautiful when it flowers. It is also an excellent ground cover plant for landscaping.
Potted Plant
The Meaning and Legends of Clover
Clover, as the name implies, has three leaves, and its flower language represents wishes, hope, and happiness. The first leaf represents true love, the second leaf represents health, and the third leaf represents fame. Having all three is considered lucky.
Many Western countries consider clover as a symbol of luck, as they believe it is a plant only found in the Garden of Eden, brought to the earth by Eve. Clover is the national flower of Ireland, and in traditional Irish weddings, the bouquet of the bride and the boutonniere of the groom must include clover.
The legend of the lucky clover originated from Napoleon. Once, while marching through a meadow with his troops, he discovered a clover with four leaves and thought it was very special. As he bent down to pick it, he avoided a bullet shot at him, thus escaping a disaster. From then on, he called it lucky clover.
Today, the four-leaf clover has been internationally recognized as a symbol of luck.
Ouyang Xiu, one of the eight great literary masters of the Tang and Song dynasties, described clover in his poems: "The red trees and green mountains are about to set, and the long fields are endless green."
Conclusion
Clover to me is filled with childhood memories, joy, and happiness. When I have time, I must go back to find that sour taste and enjoy the delicious "crystal radishes."
Do you have the shadow of clover in your memory?
This article shares the symbolism and meaning of clover and provides some knowledge on how to grow it. I hope this article can bring you a bit of help!