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Description
Medicago Orbicularis, also known as button clover or round-headed alfalfa, is a herbaceous perennial plant that belongs to the family Fabaceae. It is native to Europe and western Asia, but it has been introduced to other parts of the world, including North America and Australia. The plant can grow up to 30-60 cm tall and has a taproot system that can reach up to 1 meter in depth. It has trifoliate leaves that are gray-green in color, and its flowers are yellow and clustered in round heads.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Fabales |
| Family | Fabaceae |
| Genus | Medicago |
Appearance
Medicago Orbicularis has a distinct appearance that makes it easy to identify. The plant has trifoliate leaves that are oval in shape and have a gray-green color. The leaves are arranged alternately along the stem, and they have a smooth texture. The flowers of the plant are yellow and are arranged in round heads that can be up to 2 cm in diameter. The fruits of the plant are small, brown pods that contain several seeds.
Care Guide
Medicago Orbicularis is a low-maintenance plant that requires minimal care. Here are some tips for taking care of this plant:Water: The plant prefers well-drained soil and does not tolerate waterlogged conditions. Water the plant deeply once a week, especially during dry spells.Fertilization: The plant does not require frequent fertilization. Apply a balanced fertilizer once in the spring and once in the fall.Soil: The plant prefers well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. It can tolerate a wide range of soil types, including clay and sandy soils.Sunlight: The plant prefers full sun but can tolerate partial shade.Hardiness Zones: The plant is hardy in USDA zones 6-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Medicago Orbicularis is relatively resistant to pests and diseases. However, it can be affected by some common pests and diseases, including:Aphids: These small, soft-bodied insects can suck the sap from the plant, causing stunted growth and yellowing leaves.Leafhoppers: These insects can transmit viruses to the plant, causing yellowing and wilting of the leaves.Root rot: This disease is caused by fungi that thrive in waterlogged soil. It can cause the roots of the plant to rot, leading to stunted growth and wilting.
Habitat
Medicago Orbicularis is native to Europe and western Asia and can be found in a wide range of habitats, including meadows, pastures, and roadsides. It prefers well-drained soil and can tolerate a wide range of soil types. The plant is relatively drought-tolerant and can survive in areas with low rainfall.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Medicago Orbicularis poisonous to humans or animals?
A: No, Medicago Orbicularis is not poisonous to humans or animals.Q: Can Medicago Orbicularis be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Medicago Orbicularis can be grown in containers as long as they have good drainage.Q: How often should I fertilize Medicago Orbicularis?
A: You should fertilize Medicago Orbicularis once in the spring and once in the fall.Q: How much sunlight does Medicago Orbicularis need?
A: Medicago Orbicularis prefers full sun but can tolerate partial shade.
Related Plants
Here are some plants that are related to Medicago Orbicularis:- Medicago lupulina (black medick)- Medicago sativa (lucerne)- Medicago polymorpha (burclover)- Medicago falcata (sickle medick)
References
– Davis, P. H., et al. (1988). Flora of Turkey and the East Aegean Islands. Edinburgh University Press.- USDA Plants Database: https://plants.usda.gov/home- Missouri Botanical Garden: https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/
