Dorycnium pentaphyllum, commonly known as Canary clover or five-leaf clover, is a small perennial plant belonging to the Fabaceae family. Native to the Mediterranean region, it thrives in a variety of habitats, including rocky slopes, dry meadows, and open woodlands.
Reaching a height of up to 30 cm, the plant features a woody stem with numerous branches. Its small leaves comprise five oval-shaped leaflets that exhibit a bluish-green hue. The pink or white flowers of Dorycnium pentaphyllum bloom from May to August.
This plant possesses several medicinal properties. It acts as an anti-inflammatory agent, offering relief from arthritis pain. Additionally, it contains flavonoids with antioxidant properties that help protect against cellular damage caused by free radicals.
Dorycnium pentaphyllum also plays a role in soil stabilization, thanks to its deep root system that helps prevent soil erosion on slopes. Moreover, its nectar-rich flowers provide an essential food source for bees.
In summary, Dorycnium pentaphyllum is a versatile plant offering numerous benefits, from medicinal uses to ecological contributions, making it an important species within its native range.
Botanical profile.
- Plant Type
- Herb
- Life Cycle
- Perennial
- Genus
- Dorycnium
- Family
- Leguminosae
- Hardiness Zone
- 8
- Mature Height
- 10 cm to 61 cm
- Mature Spread
- 61 cm
- Leaf Color
- Silver, Gray
- Leaf Type
- Semi-evergreen
- Flower Color
- White
- Flower Size
- 0.51 cm to 0.76 cm
- Bloom Time
- Late spring, Early summer, Mid summer
- Planting Time
- Spring, Summer, Autumn
- Harvest Time
- Late summer, Early fall, Mid fall
Other names.
