Trigonella foenum-graecum aka Fenugreek

Taxonomy

Genus Trigonella Family Fabaceae Order Fabales Class Magnoliopsida Phylum Tracheophyta
Trigonella foenum-graecum, also known as Fenugreek, is an annual plant belonging to the Fabaceae family. It is native to Western Asia and is cultivated worldwide as a semiarid crop. Its leaves consist of three small obovate to oblong leaflets, and the plant can be easily identified by its light green, three-lobed, oval leaves that can grow up to 4 inches (12 cm) tall. The stems are straight, up to 19 in (50 cm) long, and drooping, while the flowers are small and papillonaceous, resembling a butterfly, and can be blue, white, or yellow in color. Fenugreek is a common ingredient in dishes from the Indian subcontinent, and its seeds and leaves have been used as a culinary ingredient since ancient times. Its seeds are also used as a condiment, adding flavor to maple syrup, cheese, and curries. The plant is found in popular seasonings, including suneli hops, and is added to animal feed. Although fenugreek is sold as a dietary supplement, there is no clinical evidence that it has therapeutic properties. Commonly used in traditional medicine, it can increase the risk of serious adverse effects, including allergic reactions. The largest producer of fenugreek is India, and the fruit appears in early summer in the form of long and sharp pods containing tiny green seeds and a strong spicy smell. At the end of summer, the fruit turns yellow, and its seeds turn brown, which means the plant is maturing. While Trigonella foenum-graecum is primarily used for food and traditional medicine, its uncultivated habitat includes the edges of fields and dry grassland.

Common names

Fenugreek, Greek Hay, Greek Clover, Classical Fenugreek, Greek Hay Seed

How to care for Fenugreek

Difficulty

Even if you don't have a green thumb, you can successfully care for Fenugreek due to its easy-going nature.

Water

Fenugreek should be watered regularly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.

Soil

Fenugreek loves a well-draining soil. Perlite and vermiculite help with drainage, while coco coir adds organic matter, so a good potting soil mix will have all three. You can improve store-bought soil by adding some perlite to it.

Lighting

Fenugreek thrives in bright and direct sunlight. To ensure your plant receives enough light to survive, place it less than one foot from a window. The current weather in your area may affect the placement in your home. For example, if you live in a region that has longer and more intense periods of sunlight, then you may want to place the plant farther away from the window to avoid direct sunlight and reduce the risk of sunburn. Alternatively, if you live in a region with relatively milder temperatures and less intense sunlight, then you may be able to place the plant closer to the window for increased exposure. Ultimately, the current weather in your area should be taken into consideration when determining the best placement for your Greek Hay Seed.

Toxicity

Ploi's records do not contain confirmed information on the toxicity of this particular plant. In the event of accidental ingestion of plant material with questionable toxicity by you, a family member, or a pet, it is always a good idea to consult a healthcare professional.

Growth-pattern

Fenugreek grows vertically and new growth emerges from the top of the plant.

Region of origin

Fenugreek’s native range is Europe - S. France.

More info:
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More Species in Trigonella Genus

Trigonella suavissima Cooper Clover

Trigonella foenum-graecum Fenugreek

Trigonella corniculata