Trigonella foenum-graecum

RHS Plant Profile
fenugreek

Other common names

Greek clover, Greek hay

Annual Biennial

A hardy annual with yellow to white flowers that appear in spring and summer. Trifoliate leaves resemble clover. Seeds, sprouts and leaves have culinary uses. Also used as a green-manure

Position

Full sun, Partial shade

Soil Types

Sand, Clay, Chalk, Loam

Max Height

0.5-1 metres

Max Spread

0.1-0.5 metres

Size

Time to Maturity
1 year
Max Spread
0.1-0.5 metres
Max Height
0.5-1 metres

Growing Conditions

Sand Clay Chalk Loam
Moisture
Moist but well–drained
pH
Acid or Alkaline or Neutral

Position

Full sun Partial shade
Aspect
South–facing or West–facing or East–facing
Exposure
Exposed or Sheltered
Hardiness
H4

Colour & Scent

Season Stem Flower Foliage Fruit
Spring
Summer
Autumn
Winter

Botanical Details

Family
Fabaceae
Native to GB/Ireland
No
Foliage
Deciduous
Habit
Bushy
Genus
Name Status
Correct

How to Grow

Cultivation

Grows well in a sunny position, on moist but well-drained fertile soil. May be grown as green manure; see our video How to grow and sow green manure for advice

Propagation

Propagate by seed. See sowing vegetable seeds

Suggested planting locations and garden types

  • Cottage and informal garden
  • Patio and container plants

Pruning

No pruning required

Pests

Generally pest-free

Diseases

Generally disease-free but may be susceptible to powdery mildews