White sweet clover

White sweet clover ( Melilotus albus ), often nicknamed "boreal vanilla," is a fragrant biennial plant with delicate white flowers, giving off a sweet, floral aroma reminiscent of both vanilla and tonka bean, although it is unique in its own right.

This vigorous plant can grow up to 1.2 meters tall and thrives in poor, well-drained soils. The young leaves can be added to salads, but it's the fresh flowers that are most prized for their captivating fragrance, perfect for flavoring desserts and other dishes.

A sweet clover essence can be made by macerating the flowers in alcohol, similar to a vanillin extract.