SAMARSKIY – an annual species of sweet clover (Melilotus albus Medik.), developed by the Samara Federal Research Center of the RAS and intended for agricultural use as an agronomical product. The bush is erect, compact, 167–186 cm high, with trifoliate, rounded-ovate, hairless leaves. Inflorescences – an axillary raceme about 30 cm long, white flowers, and elliptic pods of light brown color. Seeds are oval and light yellow; the weight of 1000 seeds is 2.6–2.8 g.
The variety is characterized by medium maturity: the vegetative period until mowing maturity is 50–55 days, and until seed maturity is 105–115 days. It shows good salt tolerance and drought tolerance, which makes it suitable for cultivation in various climatic conditions. The average yield of dry matter is 58.3 ц/га, and seed yield is 4.69 ц/га.
In the food industry, sweet clover SAMARSKIY is widely used as an aromatic and flavoring plant. Young leaves and inflorescence tops are harvested for preparing garnishes for soups, okroshka, salads, and compotes; they add a pleasant taste to fish and meat dishes. Dried sweet clover turns into a spice, which is used as a flavoring for fish, meat, and even dairy products. Powder from dried grass can be used in dough to give a special taste and color. Due to its properties, this variety is also used in the confectionery, tobacco, and cosmetic industries as an aromatic agent.
Thus, sweet clover SAMARSKIY represents a universal plant with high yield, resistance to unfavorable conditions, and a wide range of applications – from agriculture to cuisine and perfumery.
