A woody perennial with a strong underground root system. Leaves are composed of three round leaflets. The middle leaflet is slightly larger and is extended on a short stem. Small purple-pink flowers rise above the ground and with maturity develop into flattened seeds similar to bean pods. These jointed pods break into separate parts, stick to clothing and animals and are transported from lawn to lawn. Beggarweed is often confused with clover. Leaflets of clover are equal in size and each is attached to the main stem in the same manner. Beggarweed is a much tougher, stronger plant than clover and much more difficult to control.