Contents
Description
Medicago Lupulina, commonly known as black medick or nonesuch, is a herbaceous plant that is native to Europe, but it can also be found in other parts of the world, including North America, Asia, and Australia. It belongs to the legume family and is known for its small yellow flowers that bloom in clusters.This plant is a hardy annual or biennial that can grow up to 30 cm (12 inches) tall. It has a taproot system and a smooth, branching stem that is covered with fine hairs. The leaves are trifoliate, with each leaflet being oval or oblong in shape and measuring about 1 cm (0.4 inches) long.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Fabales |
| Family | Leguminosae |
| Genus | Medicago |
Appearance
Medicago Lupulina is a small plant that is known for its yellow flowers. The flowers are about 5 mm (0.2 inches) in diameter and are arranged in clusters at the top of the stem. The leaves are trifoliate, with each leaflet being oval or oblong in shape and measuring about 1 cm (0.4 inches) long. The stem is smooth and branching, and it is covered with fine hairs.
Care Guide
Medicago Lupulina is a hardy plant that can grow in a variety of conditions. Here are some guidelines for caring for this plant:Water: Medicago Lupulina requires moderate watering. It is important to keep the soil moist, but not waterlogged.Fertilization: This plant does not require heavy fertilization. A light application of a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season should be sufficient.Soil: Medicago Lupulina grows well in well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. It can tolerate a wide range of soil types, including sandy or clay soils.Sunlight: This plant prefers full sun, but it can also grow in partial shade.Hardiness Zones: Medicago Lupulina is hardy in USDA zones 3-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Like all plants, Medicago Lupulina is susceptible to pests and diseases. Here are some of the most common ones to watch out for:Pests: Aphids, spider mites, and thrips are common pests that can infest Medicago Lupulina. These pests can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil.Diseases: Powdery mildew and root rot are two common diseases that can affect Medicago Lupulina. These diseases can be prevented by providing good air circulation and avoiding over-watering.
Habitat
Medicago Lupulina is a common plant that can be found in a variety of habitats, including meadows, fields, and along roadsides. It prefers well-drained soil and can tolerate a wide range of soil types. This plant is also drought-tolerant and can survive in areas with low rainfall.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Medicago Lupulina be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Medicago Lupulina can be grown in containers as long as they have good drainage and are kept well-watered.Q: Is Medicago Lupulina poisonous to pets?
A: No, Medicago Lupulina is not toxic to pets.Q: Can Medicago Lupulina be used for medicinal purposes?
A: Yes, Medicago Lupulina has been used in traditional medicine to treat a variety of ailments, including respiratory infections and digestive problems.Q: How often should Medicago Lupulina be fertilized?
A: Medicago Lupulina does not require heavy fertilization. A light application of a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season should be sufficient.
Related Plants
Here are some related plants to Medicago Lupulina:- Medicago sativa (alfalfa)- Medicago polymorpha (burclover)- Medicago arabica (spotted medick)- Medicago truncatula (barrel medic)
References
– “Medicago Lupulina L.” Plants of the World Online. Kew Science. Accessed 4 June 2021. – “Black Medick.” Royal Horticultural Society. Accessed 4 June 2021.- “Medicago Lupulina.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed 4 June 2021.
