Looking for Luck: The Story of the Four-Leaf Clover

Written by: Prashitha Kanipaku ('29)

Of all the plants, flowers, and leaves out there, the best feeling is when you find a four-leaf clover. So out of all of these plants in the world, why does finding this one make our heart skip a beat? Four-leaf clovers are one of rarest plants out there with there being only one four-leaf clover out every ten thousand regular three-leaf clovers. While some may look for these clovers for the thrill of finding something scarce, many believe these leaves have a more spiritual meaning behind them because four leaf clovers are often revered for manifesting fortune. Regardless if it is because of the science or the serendipity, there is a story behind these "fortuitous" leaves. 

The Science:  

One of the reasons we get so excited about finding a four leaf clover is because it is hard to find one, and when we do it is exciting. Why are they so rare though? The typical clover produces three leaves by default. Sometimes under certain environmental stress or growth conditions, an extra leaf is produced making the four-leaf clovers a variation rather than a different species. In addition, the gene, which is the basic physical and functional unit of heredity, for the fourth leaf is recessive, meaning both parents must pass  it down to the offspring for the leaf to show. This is naturally very uncommon, making the four-leaf clover very rare. 

The Story: 

While the science is very fascinating, there are so many stories behind the four leaf clover that make it so special. In ancient Celtic Folklore, they were believed to be magical, protective charms that allowed its holders to avoid evil spirits. Each leaf is believed to represent a different blessing. One for faith. One for hope. One for love. One for luck. Also, ancient Druid priests believed the rare-four leaf clovers provided magical protection, bad luck and evil spirits for “chosen” people that found them. In addition, in the Middle Ages, children believed that carrying a four-leaf clover would enable them to see fairies. Whichever backstory you choose to believe, four leaf clovers hold a special connection to many cultures. 

Whether cherished for its intriguing science or belief that it is a powerful good luck charm, the four-leaf clover is a specimen that is one of a kind. This genetic phenomenon allows us to find joy in the simple things. Next time March and St. Patrick’s day comes around, you now have the story behind the plant that makes you do a double take when walking through nature. Perhaps you might just get lucky and find the one in ten thousand!