Melilotus officinalis
(Yellow Sweetclover)
Melilotus officinalis, Silver Shekel, Breckenridge, Summit Co. 9058
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