Sweet Clover

(Melilotus officinalis)

Sweet Clover (Melilotus officinalis [L.] Lam.)

Alien: Native of Europe.

Identification: Flowers white or yellow, pealike. Flowers arranged in long, tapered spikes. Plant with sweet aroma when crushed. Leaves with 3 leaflets, each leaflet elongate. Plant 2 to 5 feet in height.

Distribution: Throughout most of North America.

Habitat: Sweet Clover is commonly planted as a forage crop. The species is widely distributed in disturbed habitats such as empty lots, fields, and roadsides.

Flowering period: June to August.

Similar Species: The long spikes of pealike flowers are distinctive.

Comments: The yellow and white varieties of Sweet Clover have been treated as separate species by some in the past.