Circle Medick

medicago orbicularis

Also known as: ["Circle Medick","Orbicular Medick"]

Family: Fabaceae Genus: Medicago Category: Herbs & Weeds

Overview

A small annual legume with trifoliate leaves and small yellow flowers, native to the Mediterranean region.

Benefits & Perks

["edible fruits","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","drought tolerant"]

Botanical Classification

Phylum: Magnoliophyta
Class: Magnoliopsida
Order: Fabales
Family: Fabaceae
Genus: Medicago
Botanical Name: Medicago orbicularis

Plant Characteristics

Basic Information
  • Category: Herbs & Weeds
  • Suitable Location: outdoor garden bed in temperate climates, or container in cooler regions
  • Suitable For:
    Beginners Busy People (low Maintenance) Wildlife Supporters
  • Is Weed: No
  • Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
  • Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–35°C"}
  • Hardiness: {"zones":"7–10"}
  • Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
  • Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
  • Soil Type: Well-draining loamy soil with added organic matter.
Maintenance Level
  • Maintenance Level: low
  • Toughness Level: moderate
  • Pruning Frequency: Annually in late winter or early spring; light pruning can be done as needed.
  • Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of old growth if necessary.
Care Details

Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours/day); tolerates partial shade in hot climates.

Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense sunlight; protect from harsh midday sun; adjust placement based on seasonal light intensity.

Warning Signs: Yellowing leaves, root rot, or stunted growth indicate poor soil conditions or improper watering.

Care Requirements

Care Difficulty
easy

moderate

Sunlight

full sun to partial shade

Rotate plant for even light exposure; use sheer curtains to filter intense sun; avoid sudden light changes.

Watering

every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter

Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure proper drainage; avoid wetting foliage.

Soil

well-drained, sandy loam with moderate organic content

pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).

Use a mix of potting soil and perlite; avoid heavy clay soils; ensure pots have drainage holes.

Temperature

Prefers 60–85°F (15–29°C); tolerates mild frosts but avoids extreme heat.

Monitor temperature fluctuations; adjust care based on seasonal changes; protect from drafts.

Fertilizing

every 4–6 weeks during growing season, none in winter

Fertilize only when actively growing; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; use organic options for slow release.

Propagation

Methods

Stem cuttings or seed; stem cuttings are faster and more reliable.

Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
  1. Take a 4–6 inch cutting.
  2. Remove lower leaves.
  3. Dip in hormone.
  4. Plant in medium.
  5. Keep moist and warm.

Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.

Environment

Warm (70–75°F), high humidity (70–80%), indirect light.

Medium

Well-draining mix of peat and perlite or cactus soil.

Hormone

Recommended for faster rooting.

Timeline

Roots in 2–4 weeks; establish in 2–3 months.

Tools Needed

Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, misting spray bottle.

Quick Tips

Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain consistent moisture; provide bottom heat for faster rooting.

Pruning & Repotting

Pruning Guide
Method

Cut stems just above a leaf node or bud; thin out crowded areas to improve light penetration.

Pruning Plan

Remove dead or overgrown stems to encourage bushier growth and better air circulation.

Tools

Pruning shears, sterilizing solution, gloves.

Checklist

Sterilize tools; prune during dormancy; remove dead/damaged growth; clean up debris.

Repotting Guide
Best Season

Early spring before new growth begins.

Pot Size

One size larger pot (e.g., +2 inches in diameter).

Method

Remove plant gently; trim roots if crowded; place in new pot with fresh soil; water lightly.

Suggestions

Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for root health and growth.

Checklist

Check root bound status; prepare new pot with drainage; use fresh soil mix; water after repotting.

Advanced Care Tips

Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist

Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; avoid overhead watering.

How to Apply Water Properly

Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone; allow excess water to drain away; water early in the day to minimize evaporation.

Pro Tip: Use a watering can with a narrow spout to direct water to the roots without disturbing the soil surface.
Watering Schedule Tips

Water deeply once the top inch of soil is dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.

Soil Improvement

Add perlite or sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure aeration with coarse materials.

Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues

Wilting, yellowing leaves, or stunted growth in extreme temperatures.

Cold Stress

Slows growth; may cause leaf drop or dormancy in prolonged cold.

Solution: Provide frost protection; move indoors in freezing conditions; reduce watering.

Hot Stress

Leaves may scorch, wilt, or drop; growth may slow in excessive heat.

Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity; water more frequently but avoid waterlogging.

Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist

Check growth phase; dilute fertilizer correctly; apply to moist soil; avoid contact with roots.

Fertilizing Method

Use balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength; apply monthly during growing season (spring/summer); avoid fertilizing in winter.

Common Problems & Solutions

Yellowing leaves in Medicago orbicularis may indicate nutrient deficiencies, such as nitrogen or iron, water stress, or infection by pathogens like root rot fungi, which impair nutrient uptake.

Wilting in Medicago orbicularis is often a sign of water stress, either due to drought conditions or root damage from pathogens, leading to impaired water absorption and transport.

Leaf spots on Medicago orbicularis are commonly caused by fungal or bacterial pathogens, leading to reduced photosynthetic area, premature leaf drop, and potential spread to other parts of the plant.

Rotting, particularly root or stem rot, in Medicago orbicularis can be caused by soil-borne pathogens like Fusarium or Pythium, resulting in decay of plant tissues and eventual plant death.

Toxicity Warning

Cats
Non-toxic

Medicago orbicularis is not known to be toxic to cats. It does not produce any known harmful compounds that would affect feline health.

🌿 Toxic Parts:
none
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

No specific safety precautions are required for cats that may come into contact with or ingest this plant.
Dogs
Non-toxic

Medicago orbicularis is not known to be toxic to dogs. It does not produce any known harmful compounds that would affect canine health.

🌿 Toxic Parts:
none
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

No specific safety precautions are required for dogs that may come into contact with or ingest this plant.
Humans
Non-toxic

Medicago orbicularis is not known to exhibit toxic effects in humans. It is generally considered safe for consumption.

🌿 Toxic Parts:
none
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

No specific safety precautions are required for handling or consumption by humans.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Is Medicago orbicularis edible?

A: Yes, the fruits are edible.

Q: Does this plant attract wildlife?

A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and birds.

Q: Is this plant drought-tolerant?

A: Yes, it is drought-tolerant.

Quick Reference
Family: Fabaceae
Care: easy
Light: full sun to partial shade
Water: every 7–10 days during activ
Suitable For: ["beginners","busy people (low maintenance)","wildlife supporters (attracts bees, butterflies, birds)"]
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