It can be grown in the spring in some northern climates. It is tolerant of a variety of soil conditions including acid soils, but does not grow well on poorly drained soils. It exhibits better growth at lower temperatures than most other clovers and hence is a preferred winter species in most areas.
Leaves have three leaflets and are hairy.
Crimson clover seed are yellow-brown and larger, rounder and shinier than red clover seed.