Peter Dowdall: How the shamrock became a symbol of Ireland

'Trifolium dubium's association with St Patrick is well known. But it doesn’t end with religion. Shamrock's creeping stems have spread into our very psyche'

Trifolium dubium is a delicate, low-growing member of the fabaceae or pea family. File pictures

Trifolium dubium is a delicate, low-growing member of the pea family, fabaceae, often found thriving in grasslands, roadsides, and meadows across Ireland and much of Europe.

It’s a small, annual wildflower which produces slender, creeping stems that weave their way through the landscape creating an interwoven tapestry with this country.