Contents
Description
Medicago Arabica is a flowering plant that belongs to the legume family. It is commonly known as Arabian alfalfa and is native to North Africa and the Middle East. This plant is an important food source for livestock and is also used in traditional medicine. Medicago Arabica has small yellow flowers and grows up to 60 cm in height. It has a deep root system that can grow up to 3 meters deep, making it resistant to drought.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Fabales |
| Family | Leguminosae |
| Genus | Medicago |
Appearance
Medicago Arabica has small yellow flowers that bloom in the spring and summer. The plant has a deep root system that can grow up to 3 meters deep, making it resistant to drought. The leaves are trifoliate and are arranged alternately on the stem. The plant can grow up to 60 cm in height and has a bushy growth habit.
Care Guide
Medicago Arabica is a hardy plant that requires minimal care. It can grow in a variety of soil types and pH levels. The plant prefers well-drained soil and full sun exposure. It is drought-resistant and does not require frequent watering. Fertilization is not necessary, but a light application of nitrogen-based fertilizer can be applied in the spring to encourage growth. Medicago Arabica can be grown in USDA hardiness zones 4 to 8.
Common Pests & Diseases
Medicago Arabica is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, it may be susceptible to root rot if grown in poorly drained soil. The plant may also attract aphids, which can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil. Leafhoppers and spider mites may also infest Medicago Arabica, but these pests can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Habitat
Medicago Arabica is native to North Africa and the Middle East. It grows in arid and semi-arid regions and is commonly found in sandy and rocky soils. The plant is an important food source for livestock and is also used in traditional medicine.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Medicago Arabica grow in acidic soil?
A: Yes, Medicago Arabica can grow in a variety of soil types and pH levels, including acidic soil.
Q: Does Medicago Arabica require frequent watering?
A: No, Medicago Arabica is drought-resistant and does not require frequent watering.
Q: Can Medicago Arabica be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Medicago Arabica can be grown in containers as long as the container is large enough to accommodate the plant’s deep root system.
Q: Is Medicago Arabica poisonous?
A: No, Medicago Arabica is not poisonous and is safe for consumption by humans and animals.
Related Plants
- Medicago lupulina
- Medicago sativa
- Medicago truncatula
- Medicago polymorpha
References
- “Medicago Arabica.” Plants of the World Online, Kew Science, http://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:502165-1. Accessed 27 August 2021.
- “Medicago Arabica.” Missouri Botanical Garden, http://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=c478. Accessed 27 August 2021.
- “Medicago Arabica.” Flora of Qatar, http://www.floraofqatar.com/medicago_arabica.htm. Accessed 27 August 2021.
