code: 956
Its characteristic sweet odour
Family: Fabaceae
Common name: Bokhara clover, Honey clover, Tree clover, Sweet Clover, White-flowered sweet clover, White sweet cl
Plant Classification: Hardy biennial
Minimum Height: 60 cm
Maximum Height: 1.5 meters
Packet Content(approx.): 10+
The stature and dividing branches of this lovely plant qualify it as the biggest clover plant in the world, a veritable tree clover! It opens its heavy load of white flowers in July and August when it is a major source of nectar for bees in apiaries, and indeed, its botanical name means “honey-scented white lotus”. Its characteristic sweet odour, intensified by drying, is derived from the coumarins it produces.
Sowing advice:
For best results, seeds are sown directly into the ground where required in the spring. Alternatively, sow in late winter/early spring in gentle warmth, 15-20 degrees C. Prick out into small 3″ pots and plant in final position when the plants are established.
Distribution:
White sweetclover is native to much of Asia and southern Europe, from France and Spain to Kazakhstan and Myanmar, and also northeastern Africa.
M. albus has been introduced from Eurasia into South Africa, North and South America, New Zealand, Australia, and Tasmania, as well as many parts of Europe outside its native range
Habitat:
While it has a preference for full sun, slightly moist to dry conditions, and calcareous clay-loam or gravelly soil, M. albus is adapted to a wide range of climatic conditions and will grow in practically all soil types, including soils with very low nutrient levels, fine, and course-textured soils (though its size varies considerably with the moisture and fertility of the soil )
Uses:
White and yellow sweetclover are considered valuable honey plants, and the foliage and seeds are consumed by wildlife. They are frequently cultivated for livestock forage and as a cover crop.
Melilotus albus has been promoted in Australia for use on dryland soils affected by salinity.
