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 (alkaline) soils. It cannot grow in the shade. It prefers dry or moist soil.
It grows best in areas where annual daytime temperatures are within the range 12 - 28°c, but can tolerate 8 - 32°c. When dormant, the plant can survive temperatures down to about -30°c, but young growth is more tender and can be severely damaged at -1°c
Succeeds on a wide range of soil types so long as they are well-drained. It grows well in alkaline and moderately saline conditions, but dislikes acid conditions. Prefers a pH in the range 6.5 - 7.5, tolerating 6 - 8
It grows best in areas where annual daytime temperatures are within the range 12 - 28°c, but can tolerate 8 - 32°c. When dormant, the plant can survive temperatures down to about -30°c, but young growth is more tender and can be severely damaged at -1°c
Dried leaves can be toxic though the fresh leaves are quite safe. This is due to the presence of coumarin, the substance that gives some dried plants the smell of new mown hay. Taken internally it can prevent the blood from clotting
