Kingdom:
Phylum:
Angiosperms
Order:
Fabales
Family:
Genus:
Species:
bicolor
ID:
214533

Status:
valid

Authors:
Boiss. & Balansa

Source:
ildis

Year:
1859

Citation Micro:
P.E.Boissier, Diagn. Pl. Orient., ser. 2, 6: 46 (1859)

WFO Identifier:
wfo-0000213862



Common Names

  • Melilotus bicolor
  • Bicolor Melilotus
  • Bicolor Sweetclover


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Synonyms

  • Trigonella bicolor (Boiss. & Balansa) Lassen [valid]
  • Melilotus physocarpus Stef. [illegitimate]
  • Melilotus physocarpa Stef. [unknown]
  • Sertula bicolor Kuntze [valid]

Description

Melilotus bicolor (also called Bicolor sweetclover, among many other common names) is an annual herbaceous plant that grows up to 1 m tall. It is native to Europe and is found in disturbed habitats such as roadsides and fields.

Uses & Benefits

Melilotus bicolor is used as an ornamental plant in gardens and as a hedge. It is also used in landscaping and as a windbreak.

Flower, Seeds and Seedlings

The flower of Melilotus bicolor is a yellow-green pea-like flower with a yellow centre. The seed is a small, dark brown, flattened, kidney-shaped seed. The seedlings are small, delicate and have a white root system.

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Cultivation and Propagation

Melilotus bicolor is a low-growing, spreading, annual legume. It is best grown in well-drained soils in full sun. Propagation is by seed, which should be sown in early spring in a sunny location. The seed should be lightly covered with soil and watered regularly until germination occurs.

Where to Find Melilotus bicolor

Melilotus bicolor can be found in Europe, North Africa, and parts of Asia.

Melilotus bicolor FAQ

What is the scientific name of Melilotus bicolor?

Melilotus bicolor

What is the common name of Melilotus bicolor?

Bicolor Sweetclover

What is the natural habitat of Melilotus bicolor?

Grassy slopes and meadows

Species in the Fabaceae family

References

Edmond Boissier (1810-1885): Based on occurrence of standard abbreviation 'Boiss.' in the authors string.
Benjamin Balansa (1825-1891): Based on occurrence of standard abbreviation 'Balansa' in the authors string.
POWO record for urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:506915-1: Based on the initial data import