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Melilotus alba, Melilotus argutus, Melilotus leucanthus, Melilotus melanospermus, Melilotus vulgaris
Handagog abiad, white sweetclover
Melilotus albus (Bokhara clover, honey clover, tree clover, sweet clover, white-flowered sweet clover, white sweet clover, white melilot), is a legume sometimes grown for forage. White sweet clover is a major source of nectar for an apiary. Its characteristic sweet odour, intensified by drying, is derived from coumarin.
Melilotus albus, also known as white sweetclover, is an annual or biennial legume native to Europe and Asia. In Qatar, it has been naturalized and can be found growing in coastal areas, roadsides, and waste grounds. It is a common weed in the country, particularly during the winter months. The plant can grow up to 1 meter tall, with white flowers and trifoliate leaves. In Qatar, Melilotus albus typically blooms from December to April, and its presence has been documented in various regions, including Doha and the northern coast.
White sweetclover (Melilotus albus) taken from Al Jood Street near a corner with Saha 16 in Onaiza area. Doha, Qatar, March 13, 2015
Al Istiqlal Street, Doha, Qatar
White sweet clover (Melilotus albus) on Ibn Nusaih Street in Onaiza area. Doha, Qatar, March 19, 2015Al Istiqlal St, Doha, Qatar
Close up of white sweet clover (Melilotus albus) taken from Ibn Nusaih Street in Onaiza area. Doha, Qatar, March 19, 2015
Fruits of white sweetclover (Melilotus albus) taken from Al Jood Street near a corner with Saha 16 in Onaiza area. Doha, Qatar, March 25, 2015
White sweet clover (Melilotus albus) taken from roadside near Twar Mall in Um Lekhba neighborhood. Doha, Qatar, February 29, 2016Observations of Melilotus albus in Qatar reveal that the plant can be found in various areas, including Onaiza and Um Lekhba neighborhoods in Doha. It was spotted on Al Jood Street, Ibn Nusaih Street, and near Twar Mall, indicating its ability to grow in different locations. The plant was observed with flowers in March 2015, suggesting it blooms during this time. Close-up observations showed the plant's white flowers and fruits, which were visible by March 25, 2015. Additionally, the plant was found growing roadside, suggesting it can thrive in disturbed areas. Repeat sightings, such as near Twar Mall on February 29, 2016, indicate that Melilotus albus can persist in the same location over time. Overall, these observations provide insight into the growth habits and distribution of Melilotus albus in Qatar.
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