White Sweetclover (Melilotus albus)

Family: Fabaceae or Leguminosae | Edibility: Edible (2/5)

Melilotus albus is a ANNUAL/BIENNIAL growing to 1.2 m (4ft) at a fast rate. It is not frost tender. It is in flower from July to August. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Bees. It can fix Nitrogen. It is noted for attracting wildlife. Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils and prefers well-drained soil. Suitable pH: neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils.

Edible Parts & Harvest Seasons

Edible Parts: Nuts/Seeds, Leaves, Shoots, Flowers

Harvest Seasons: Spring, Early Summer, Late Summer, Fall, Winter

Flavor & Culinary Uses

flavouring. — Leaves and seedpods - cooked as a 'bean soup'.; The pea-like seeds are used as a seasoning for bean and split-pea soups.; Young shoots - raw or cooked.; Added to salads or used as a potherb.

Habitat & North American Range

Fields and waste places on dry, not acid soils. (Zone 3, Zone 4, Zone 5, Zone 6, Zone 7, Zone 8, Zone 9)