Black medick
Medicago lupulina · Fabaceae
The gardener's calendar
Ideal time to plant black medick: set it out when the soil is neither frozen nor waterlogged, and water generously as it establishes.
ID card
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Flowering
- May to September, small golden-yellow flowers
- Adult size
- 20 to 40 cm in height
- Growth
- Fast
- Hardiness
- Very hardy, down to -15°C
- Origin
- Mediterranean region and Asia Minor
- Soil type
- Well-drained, undemanding in terms of fertility
Care
Watering
Black medick tolerates drought well once established. Water moderately during the first year to encourage deep rooting. Afterwards, natural rainfall is generally sufficient, except during prolonged dry spells.
Light exposure
Place this plant in full sun for optimal growth and abundant flowering. It also accepts partial shade, but will be less vigorous and flower less profusely.
Soil and preparation
Black medick thrives in well-drained soil, even poor and chalky soil. Avoid waterlogging which would promote root rot. A modest initial compost addition is sufficient.
Pruning and cutting
No strict pruning is necessary. You can lightly cut back after flowering to encourage compactness and a second flush of blooms. Leave flowers in place if you want natural seed dispersal.
Fertilizer
Undemanding, this legume fixes atmospheric nitrogen through its root nodules. Fertilizer is generally not necessary. In very depleted soil, a light balanced fertilizer in spring may suffice.
Diseases and pests
Very resistant, black medick rarely suffers from major diseases. Watch for excess moisture which can cause rot. A few herbivorous insects may visit it without causing significant damage.
Did you know?
Black medick has long been used as nutritious fodder for livestock, hence its popular nickname. Its root nodules contain symbiotic bacteria that naturally enrich the soil with nitrogen, making it a valuable ally in organic farming and crop rotation.
Where to buy it
Plant in spring or early autumn, avoiding spells of intense heat. Pick a plant with healthy foliage and roots that are not exposed. Best time: March, April, May, September.
Add this plant to my garden →Plants from the same family
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- Common broomCytisus scoparius
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- Honey locustGleditsia triacanthos
- Hairy greenweedGenista pilosa
Tips generated and checked by Viridia — adapt them to your local climate.