Sacred Clover: A Unique and Valuable Genus of Plants
Hierochloe (also known as "sacred clover") is a genus of flowering plants in the family Fabaceae. The name Hierochloe comes from the Greek words "hiero" meaning "sacred" and "chloe" meaning "grass".
There are only two species of Hierochloe, H. odorata and H. elegans, which are both found in the mountainous regions of Europe and Asia. These plants are characterized by their attractive flowers and their ability to fix nitrogen from the air, making them valuable as a soil fertilizer.
Hierochloe has been used for centuries in traditional medicine and is still used today in some parts of the world to treat various ailments such as fever, cough, and respiratory problems. The plant's leaves and flowers are also edible and can be consumed as a tea or added to salads.
Overall, Hierochloe is a unique and valuable genus of plants that have both ornamental and practical uses.