Stinking bean trefoil, also known as Melilotus officinalis, is a plant that belongs to the legume family. This species is often grown as a green manure crop because it fixes nitrogen in the soil. However, its strong smell can be unpleasant, hence the name "stinking bean trefoil". Synonyms for this plant include sweet clover, yellow sweet clover, and golden sweet clover. It is also known as vanillic acid, which is a compound found in the plant that contributes to its distinctive scent. Despite its odor, stinking bean trefoil is a valuable plant in many industries, as it has medicinal, industrial, and agricultural uses.