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 the Southern States Japan clover and burr clover will serve the purpose of catch crops better than the other varieties.

From Clovers and How to Grow Them by Shaw, Thomas

In some parts of the South it is known as "Japan clover," and is highly valued as a forage plant.

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

Japan clover Pasture Perennial Excellent for forest and old soils.

From Agriculture for Beginners Revised Edition by Burkett, Charles William

Japan clover is best cut when the plants are in full bloom.

From Clovers and How to Grow Them by Shaw, Thomas

Japan clover has no mission for any of the provinces of Canada, and for the reason that it has no mission for the Northern States.

From Clovers and How to Grow Them by Shaw, Thomas