All Shamrocks are clovers, but not all clovers are shamrocks. The biggest difference is in their botany. Shamrocks have three leaves. Clovers can have four leaves, which then do not make them shamrocks.
The Irish are particularly sensitive to this difference. It is believed that St. Patrick, an actual man who was a Christian missionary in Ireland, used the shamrock to explain the holy trinity, which apparently went really well.
In contrast, the four-leafed clover is a rare genetic mutation of the three-leafed variety. While associated with luck, they are not considered to be shamrocks by those passionate about Irish tradition.
Now you have something cool to share with your drinking buddies. Happy St. Patrick's Day!
The Irish are particularly sensitive to this difference. It is believed that St. Patrick, an actual man who was a Christian missionary in Ireland, used the shamrock to explain the holy trinity, which apparently went really well.
In contrast, the four-leafed clover is a rare genetic mutation of the three-leafed variety. While associated with luck, they are not considered to be shamrocks by those passionate about Irish tradition.
Now you have something cool to share with your drinking buddies. Happy St. Patrick's Day!
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