Kura clover (Trifolium ambiguum) is a perennial legume that shows potential for use in pasture mixtures in western Canada. Previous studies have shown that early growth of kura clover is reduced when grown in mixtures with grass species. A greenhouse study examined the relative importance of above- and below-ground competition on growth and development of kura clover when grown with a grass species. Kura clover plants were grown in pots with meadow bromegrass (Bromus biebersteinii) and barriers were put in place to remove all competition, shoot competition, root competition, or to allow full competition. After 12 wk, plants were harvested. Height, leaf area, leaf number, leaf dry weight, and root/crown dry weight were measured. Kura clover leaf number and leaf area were greatest when roots did not interact with meadow bromegrass roots. Vegetative biomass of kura clover doubled when there was no root competition. Shoot competition did not alter leaf number, leaf area, or leaf biomass. Successful establishment of kura clover is dependent on the reduction of root competition during the seedling phase. Measures taken to minimize the below-ground interaction should positively affect the yield potential of both species. Key words: Kura clover, meadow bromegrass, shoot competition, root competition