Contents
Description
Medicago marina, commonly known as the seaside medick, is a species of flowering plant in the legume family Fabaceae. It is a perennial plant that has a prostrate or ascending growth habit and can grow up to 30 cm in height. This plant is native to the Mediterranean region and is commonly found in coastal areas, sandy beaches, and dunes. Medicago marina is known for its ability to grow in poor soil conditions and its tolerance to saltwater.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Fabales |
| Family | Leguminosae |
| Genus | Medicago |
Appearance
The seaside medick has a unique appearance with small, yellow flowers that bloom in clusters from May to September. The leaves are comprised of three leaflets that are oval in shape and have a toothed edge. The stem is thin and covered in short hairs. The roots of this plant can grow up to 1 meter deep, allowing it to survive in harsh conditions.
Care Guide
To maintain a healthy seaside medick, follow these care tips:- Water: The plant is drought-tolerant and can grow in dry conditions, but it requires regular watering during its first year of growth.- Fertilization: The plant does not require fertilization, as it is capable of fixing nitrogen from the air.- Soil: The seaside medick can grow in poor soil conditions, but it prefers well-draining soil.- Sunlight: The plant thrives in full sun but can tolerate partial shade.- Hardiness Zones: This plant is hardy in USDA zones 8 to 10.
Common Pests and Diseases
The seaside medick is relatively disease and pest-free, but it may be susceptible to root rot if grown in poorly-draining soil. It may also attract aphids and spider mites, which can be treated with insecticidal soap.
Habitat
The seaside medick is native to the Mediterranean region and is commonly found in coastal areas, sandy beaches, and dunes. It is also found in other parts of the world, such as Australia and southern Africa.
Questions and Answers
Q: Is the seaside medick tolerant to saltwater?
A: Yes, the seaside medick is known for its tolerance to saltwater.
Q: Does the seaside medick require fertilization?
A: No, the plant does not require fertilization as it is capable of fixing nitrogen from the air.
Q: What is the ideal soil condition for the seaside medick?
A: The plant can grow in poor soil conditions, but it prefers well-draining soil.
Q: What is the hardiness zone for the seaside medick?
A: This plant is hardy in USDA zones 8 to 10.
Related Plants
– Medicago arborea- Medicago lupulina- Medicago sativa
References
– “Medicago marina.” Plants for a Future. Accessed June 25, 2021. https://pfaf.org/user/Plant.aspx?LatinName=Medicago+marina.- “Medicago marina.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed June 25, 2021. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=b560.
