Strawberry Candle: Features and Care

Strawberry candle is an annual plant named for its bright red flower spikes that resemble the flame of a candle. Blooming from early to late spring, it adds a charming and vivid touch to flower beds and container gardens.

This article will introduce the basic information, cultural background, history, and care tips for growing strawberry candle.

Basic Information

• Scientific name: Trifolium incarnatum
• Family: Fabaceae (Legume family)
• Origin: Southern Europe
• Appearance: Reaching a height of about 30–50 cm, the plant grows outward slightly. It features trifoliate leaves similar to clover and cone-shaped, densely clustered red flower spikes at the tip of each stem.
• Blooming season: April to June

Cultural Features Around the World

Due to its vivid color and symmetrical form, strawberry candle is widely appreciated as an ornamental plant worldwide.

In Europe, it has long been used as a green manure plant, but its decorative value has led to increasing use in public spaces and gardens.

In Japan, its vivid color and unique flower shape have gained attention among gardening enthusiasts. It is cherished as a flower that signals the arrival of spring and is often planted in home gardens and mixed containers. Compact and easy to handle, it adds a rhythmic touch of color to flower beds, making it a favorite among people of all ages.

Historical Background

The original species Trifolium incarnatum was traditionally grown in southern Europe for green manure and livestock feed. It became a valuable crop in medieval agriculture as part of rotational farming to improve soil fertility.

By the 19th century, its ornamental potential gained attention in countries like Britain and France, where it was introduced into cottage gardens and ornamental landscapes.

In Japan, it was introduced during the Showa era and is now a familiar spring flower found in both home gardens and public spaces.

Gardening Advice

Strawberry candle is typically grown from seed as an annual and quickly develops into a flowering plant that adds vibrant color to spring gardens.

Sunlight

Prefers full sun. Lack of sunlight may reduce flowering, so choose a location that receives ample daylight.

Watering

Water thoroughly when the surface of the soil becomes dry. Avoid overwatering to prevent root rot. Ensure good drainage.

Soil

Prefers light, well-drained, slightly fertile soil. Commercial potting mixes for flowers are generally suitable, with added compost or perlite for better aeration.

Fertilizer

Apply base fertilizer at planting. Monthly feeding with a slow-release fertilizer is sufficient, but avoid over-fertilizing.

Pruning and Care

Remove faded flowers promptly to encourage continuous blooming. Prune dead or overcrowded leaves to improve airflow and appearance.

Cold tolerance

Somewhat sensitive to cold. In colder climates, sow in spring after the last frost and enjoy blooms in early summer.

Conclusion

Strawberry candle is a spring-blooming annual known for its red candle-shaped flower spikes. While originally used in Europe for agricultural purposes, it later gained popularity in ornamental gardening.

Introduced to Japan in the 20th century, it is now commonly found in flower beds, parks, and schoolyards. With proper care—ample sunlight, good drainage, and moderate watering—it brings gentle charm and seasonal color to any outdoor space.