Japan clover

American  

noun

1. a drought-resistant bush clover, Lespedeza striata, of the legume family, introduced to the southern Atlantic states from Asia, having numerous tiny trifoliate leaves valued for pasturage and hay.

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Etymology

Origin of Japan clover

An Americanism dating back to 1865–70

Example Sentences

See Examples For:

Japan clover

In this respect it is not unlike small white clover and Japan clover, but it does not grow so well as these on poor soil.

From Clovers and How to Grow Them by Shaw, Thomas

It has been found quite possible in short rotations to secure pasture from Japan clover without sowing it on land on which it has once grown.

From Clovers and How to Grow Them by Shaw, Thomas

For a permanent pasture in the South, Japan clover, Bermuda, and such other local grasses as have been found to adapt themselves readily to the climate should be added.

From Agriculture for Beginners Revised Edition by Burkett, Charles William

Japan clover and burr clover will grow on almost any kind of soil, but on good soils the growth will, of course, be much more vigorous than on poor soils.

From Clovers and How to Grow Them by Shaw, Thomas

Japan clover is not usually relished by stock at first, but they soon come to like it, and are then fond of it.

From Clovers and How to Grow Them by Shaw, Thomas