Definition

Noun: 1. A type of clover (Trifolium reflexum or Trifolium stoloniferum) native to the western United States. 2. A low-growing annual plant (Psoralea tenuiflora) of the southwestern United States, with silky foliage and blue flowers, known to be toxic to livestock.

Examples

• The prairie was dotted with patches of buffalo clover.
• Ranchers must be cautious to prevent cattle from grazing on buffalo clover, as it can cause poisoning.

Advanced Usage

• The term is primarily used in botanical, agricultural, and ecological contexts to describe these specific North American plants.
• Its meaning is highly region-specific and tied to its geographical origin (western/southwestern U.S.).

Variants and Related Words

• Blue Buffalo Clover: A common name that emphasizes the flower color of the species.
• Buffalo Clover () is also known as Running Buffalo Clover, highlighting its growth habit.

Synonyms

• For meaning 1 (clover): Trifolium reflexum, Trifolium stoloniferum.
• For meaning 2 (toxic herb): Psoralea tenuiflora, slimflower scurfpea (a more precise botanical name).

Notes on Different Meanings

The word buffalo clover refers to two distinct plants: 1. A non-toxic species of clover (genus Trifolium). 2. A toxic herb (genus Psoralea) that is not a true clover but shares the common name due to some habitat or morphological similarities. Context, especially location (western vs. southwestern U.S.), usually indicates which plant is meant.

Noun

1. clover of western United States
2. low-growing annual herb of southwestern United States (Texas) having silky foliage and blue flowers; a leading cause of livestock poisoning in the southwestern United States