Yellow sweet clover (Melilotus officinalis)
Care, watering, light and tips for Yellow sweet clover on Floravia.
Quick facts
- Family: Fabaceae
- Difficulty: Easy to care for
- Watering: every 5 days
- Light: Full sun
- Temperature: 5–35 °C
- Toxicity: Toxic to pets
About Yellow sweet clover
Melilotus officinalis, commonly known as yellow sweet clover, is a biennial herbaceous plant belonging to the Fabaceae family. It is characterized by its erect stems and fragrant clusters of small yellow flowers, which bloom in summer. It is ideal for revegetating degraded land, as a forage crop, or as a green manure, and also attracts pollinators.
Native range
Europe and temperate Asia
Care tips
It thrives in full sun and well-drained soils, tolerating a wide range of soil types, including poor and calcareous ones. Watering is minimal once established, as it is drought-tolerant. It does not require additional fertilization and propagates easily from seeds. A common mistake is planting it in areas where its spread is not desired, as it can become invasive.
How to save a dying Yellow sweet clover
- Warning signs
- Yellowish or wilted leaves, soft stems. May indicate overwatering or lack of light.
- First aid
- Check drainage and soil moisture. Move to a spot with more indirect sunlight.
- What kills it
- Constant waterlogging, leading to root rot. Also excessive shade.
- Can it be saved?
- Yes, if you act quickly. Prune damaged parts and improve environmental conditions.