The shamrock is the national symbol of Ireland — a small three-leaved clover tied to St Patrick and worn with pride around the world each March.

• National flower: Shamrock
• Scientific name: Trifolium
• Status: National symbol
• Symbolism: faith, luck, and Irish identity

About Ireland’s national flower

Tradition holds that St Patrick used the shamrock’s three leaves to teach the concept of the Holy Trinity to the Irish. The little plant became a symbol of Ireland and of Irish Christianity, and it is worn on St Patrick’s Day, March 17, by people of Irish heritage everywhere.

Symbolism and tradition

The shamrock appears on Irish sports jerseys, official emblems, and countless souvenirs. It is often confused with the lucky four-leaf clover, but the true shamrock has three leaves.

National flower of Ireland FAQs

What is the national flower of Ireland?

The national flower of Ireland is the shamrock (Trifolium). The shamrock is Ireland’s national symbol, though it is a small three-leaved plant rather than a showy flower.

What does the shamrock symbolize in Ireland?

The shamrock is linked to St Patrick, who is said to have used its three leaves to explain the Christian Holy Trinity, and it has come to represent Irish identity and good luck.

Is the shamrock Ireland’s official flower?

The shamrock is Ireland’s national symbol rather than a formal ‘flower.’ It is a small three-leaved clover associated with St Patrick and Irish identity.

Explore more

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