About

A hardy annual with yellow to white flowers that appear in spring and summer. Trifoliate leaves resemble clover. Seeds, sprouts and leaves have culinary uses. Also used as a green-manure.

About the genus

Trigonella comprises a group of plants, ranging from herbaceous perennials to shrubs or small trees. Species within the genus display a variety of growth habits and are cultivated for their decorative or practical qualities

Growing conditions

SunlightFull sun, Partial shade
Soil typeSand, Clay, Chalk, Loam
Soil pHAcid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureMoist but well-drained
AspectSouth-facing, West-facing, East-facing
ExposureExposed, Sheltered
UK hardinessH4

Plant details

Plant typeAnnual Biennial
HabitBushy
FoliageDeciduous
Height0.5-1 metres
Spread0.1-0.5 metres
Time to full height1 year
Suggested usesCottage and informal garden, Patio and container plants

Care notes

CultivationGrows well in a sunny position, on moist but well-drained fertile soil. May be grown as green manure; see our video How to grow and sow green manure for advice
PruningNo pruning required
PropagationPropagate by seed. See sowing vegetable seeds
Pest resistanceGenerally pest-free
Disease resistanceGenerally disease-free but may be susceptible to powdery mildews