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

"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)

To make good pastures, white and Japan clover are favorites.

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

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

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