White sweet clover

White sweet clover (Melilotus albus), proposed by Akène

?? A captivating fragrance and an ally of pollinators ??

White sweet clover , also called "boreal vanilla" , is a biennial plant with delicately scented white flowers , reminiscent of vanilla and tonka bean. Reaching up to 1.2 meters in height , it grows easily in poor, well-drained soils and reseeds itself naturally, ensuring its presence in the garden year after year. This hardy plant is prized in cooking for its unique aroma , particularly for flavoring desserts and infusions. In addition, its flowers attract a wide variety of pollinators , making it a valuable addition to naturalist gardens and flower meadows.

Characteristics of the variety

?? Flowering : July to August
?? Height : 120 cm
?? Spacing : 45 cm
?? Exposure : Sun, partial shade
?? Life cycle : Biennial that reseeds itself
?? Soil type : Loamy to clayey, well drained
?? Soil moisture content : Dry to medium
?? Deer Resistance : High
?? Seeds per packet : 250

Sowing and cultivation

?? Sowing depth : 10 mm
?? Germination time : 10 to 15 days
?? Recommended scarification : Light, to facilitate water absorption

?? Outdoor method :
1?? Sow directly in place in spring or fall, letting nature stratify the seeds.
2?? Cover lightly and keep the soil moist until emergence.

?? Indoor method :
?? Scarify the seeds by gently rubbing them between two sheets of fine sandpaper.
?? Soak in water at room temperature for 12 hours before sowing.
?? Sow in well-drained substrate and maintain moisture until germination.

?? Once well established, white sweet clover will reseed itself, forming a lasting presence in the garden without requiring any special maintenance.

Medicinal and culinary uses

?? An exquisite fragrance in the kitchen
Fresh flowers can be used to flavor desserts , infused in milk or macerated in alcohol, like a homemade vanilla extract.

?? Important precaution :
Sweet clover contains coumarin , which is responsible for its unique scent. If dried improperly , it can turn into dicoumarol , a powerful anticoagulant. Always dry in a ventilated place, away from light , for safe consumption.

?? Recognized medicinal virtues
Used as an infusion, sweet clover is antispasmodic, sedative and carminative . It is traditionally consumed to soothe coughs, promote relaxation and relieve muscle spasms .

Ecological roles and utilities

?? An exceptional honey plant : A valuable source of nectar for bees and other pollinators in mid-season.
?? A natural green fertilizer : Improves soil fertility by fixing nitrogen through its deep roots.
?? A fragrant and useful touch to the garden : Ideal for ecological gardens and flower meadows .

Why adopt white sweet clover?

?? A unique fragrance reminiscent of vanilla and tonka bean
?? A medicinal and culinary plant with many virtues
?? A powerful asset for pollinators and biodiversity
?? Easy cultivation and naturally enriched soil

Bring an aromatic and ecological touch to your garden with this wonderful scented plant!