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

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

These, added to the necessary telluric conditions, give the required moisture, heat, and soil-constituents for the development of the Japan clover in the South, the same as it was originally developed in its native country.

From Life: Its True Genesis by Wright, R. W.

The ease with which Japan clover may be propagated is also a strong point in its favor.

From Clovers and How to Grow Them by Shaw, Thomas

White clover does well in most parts of America, and Japan clover is especially valuable in warm Southern climates.

From Agriculture for Beginners Revised Edition by Burkett, Charles William

"That reminds me that we are greatly troubled with Japan clover on those slopes," said Mr. West.

From The Story of the Soil; from the Basis of Absolute Science and Real Life, by Hopkins, Cyril G. (Cyril George)