Sweetclover (Melilotus suaveolens)
At a glance
- Lifecycle
- Annual
- Exposure
- Full sun
Cultivation
We have almost no information on this plant and do not know if it will be hardy in Britain, though judging by its native range it should succeed outdoors in many parts of the country. It is, perhaps, no more than a synonym of Medicago officinalis. Dislikes shade. This species has a symbiotic relationship with certain soil bacteria, these bacteria form nodules on the roots and fix atmospheric nitrogen. Some of this nitrogen is utilized by the growing plant but some can also be used by other plants growing nearby.
Propagation
Seed - sow spring or autumn in situ. Pre-soaking the seed for 12 hours in warm water will speed up the germination process, particularly in dry weather[K]. Germination will usually take place within 2 weeks.
Edible uses
Young plant - cooked.
Medicinal uses
Ophthalmic.
Habitat
Waste ground and fields in lowlands, C. and S. Japan.
Native range
E. Asia - China, Japan.