Vascular Plants of the Gila Wilderness
Presented in Association with the
Western New Mexico University Department
of Natural Sciences
Melilotus officinalis (Linnaeus) Lamarck
(Yellow Sweet Clover)
Family: Fabaceae
Status: Exotic
Synonyms:
Trifolium melilotus-officinalis Linnaeus
Melilotus officinalis is a widespread invasive herb. It can be found in large numbers
in creekbeds where it successfully crowds out native species. It can grow to over
six feet tall when moisture is abundant, though it is usually not that exuberant. The flower
spikes are narrow but long, bearing small yellow flowers.
Please click on an image for a larger file.
Melilotus officinalis, photo Russ Kleinman, Silver City, May 19, 2007
Melilotus officinalis, detail of inflorescence, photo Russ Kleinman, Pinos Altos Range, Pinos Altos,
Oct. 8, 2008
Melilotus officinalis, detail of inflorescence, photo Russ Kleinman, Pinos Altos Range, CD trail above Arrastra,
Oct. 21, 2008
Back to the Index