Melilotus officinalis

(Yellow Sweetclover)

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Melilotus officinalis, Silver Shekel, Breckenridge, Summit Co. 9058

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Melilotus officinalis, Silver Shekel, Breckenridge, Summit Co. 2802

Scientific Name Melilotus officinalis USDA PLANTS Symbol MEOF
Common Name Yellow Sweetclover ITIS Taxonomic Serial No. 26150
Family Fabaceae (Pea) SEINet
Reference
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Description Life zones and habitat: Plains to montane (3500 to 9000 ft.); dry, sunny openings in fields, roadsides and disturbed areas.
Plant: Tall, fragrant, highly-branched biennial, 1-1/2 to 6 feet tall.
Leaves: Alternate composite leaves divided into 3 finely-toothed leaflets, each obovate, ovate to elliptic 3/8 to 1-inch long.
Inflorescence: Many small, yellow pea-like flowers along a slender, arching raceme 1-1/2 to 4-3/4 inches long.
Bloom Period: May to October.
References: "A Field Guide to Wildflowers of the Rocky Mountains" by Carl Schreier and "Flora of Colorado" by Jennifer Ackerfield.
BONAP Distribution Map


Map Color Key
Colorado Status:
Introduced

© Tom Lebsack 2024

Banner photo: Castilleja rhexifolia and a brewing storm over the San Juan Mountains