Bur Clover

medicago minima

Also known as: ["Lesser Bur Clover","Small Bur Clover"]

Family: Fabaceae Genus: Medicago Category: Herbs & Weeds

Overview

A small annual legume with trifoliate leaves and small yellow flowers, producing bur-like seed pods.

Benefits & Perks

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

Botanical Classification

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

Plant Characteristics

Basic Information
  • Category: Herbs & Weeds
  • Suitable Location: outdoor garden bed in full sun
  • Suitable For:
    Busy People (low Maintenance) Outdoor Landscapers Wildlife Supporters
  • Is Weed: No
  • Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
  • Climate: {"temperatureRange":"0–40°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: very low
  • Toughness Level: very high
  • Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically after flowering or in early spring.
  • Pruning Intensity: Light pruning; remove only dead or diseased parts.
Care Details

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

Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense sunlight; protect from harsh afternoon sun in hot climates; adjust placement based on seasonal light changes.

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

Care Requirements

Care Difficulty
very easy

moderate

Sunlight

full sun

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

Watering

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

Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure soil dries between waterings; avoid overwatering.

Soil

well-drained, sandy or loamy soil

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

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

Temperature

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

Monitor temperature extremes; adjust care seasonally; protect from sudden temperature shifts.

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 gentle feeding.

Propagation

Methods

Seed propagation is most common; stem cuttings can also be used.

Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
  1. Prepare medium.
  2. Sow seeds or place cuttings.
  3. Maintain moisture.
  4. Provide warmth.
  5. Transplant once rooted.

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

Environment

Warm (70–75°F), high humidity, and bright indirect light.

Medium

Well-draining seed starting mix or cactus mix with perlite.

Hormone

Optional for cuttings; not necessary for seeds.

Timeline

Seeds germinate in 1–3 weeks; cuttings root in 3–6 weeks.

Tools Needed

Seed trays, rooting hormone (optional), misting bottle, heat mat.

Quick Tips

Use fresh seeds for best germination; keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged; provide bottom heat for faster germination.

Pruning & Repotting

Pruning Guide
Method

Snip back stems just above a leaf node or bud; avoid cutting into old wood.

Pruning Plan

Minimal pruning needed; focus on removing dead or damaged growth to maintain health.

Tools

Pruning shears, sterilizing solution.

Checklist

Sterilize tools; remove dead/damaged growth; shape lightly; clean up debris.

Repotting Guide
Best Season

Early spring before active growth begins.

Pot Size

Choose a pot one size larger with drainage holes.

Method

Remove plant gently; trim roots if necessary; repot in fresh, well-draining soil; water lightly.

Suggestions

Repot only when root-bound or soil is depleted; typically every 2–3 years.

Checklist

Check root condition; prepare new pot; use fresh soil; water after repotting.

Advanced Care Tips

Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist

Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust for season.

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 in the morning to reduce evaporation.

Pro Tip: Use a watering can with a narrow spout to direct water to the roots without wetting foliage.
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 good aeration.

Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues

Wilting, yellowing leaves, stunted growth, or leaf drop.

Cold Stress

Slows growth, may cause leaf damage or dieback in freezing temperatures.

Solution: Provide frost protection; move indoors in cold climates; avoid wet soil in cold conditions.

Hot Stress

Leaf scorch, wilting, or reduced flowering in extreme heat.

Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase watering; improve air circulation.

Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist

Check growth phase; dilute fertilizer; apply to soil; avoid foliage contact.

Fertilizing Method

Use balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season; avoid fertilizing in winter.

Common Problems & Solutions

Yellowing of leaves in Medicago minima can indicate nutrient deficiencies, particularly nitrogen, or stress due to environmental factors such as waterlogging or excessive sunlight.

Wilting in Medicago minima is often a sign of water stress, either due to drought conditions or root damage from pathogens or pests.

Leaf spots in Medicago minima may be caused by fungal or bacterial pathogens, leading to reduced photosynthetic efficiency and potential defoliation if severe.

Rotting, particularly root rot, in Medicago minima is typically caused by fungal pathogens such as Fusarium or Rhizoctonia, often exacerbated by waterlogged soil conditions.

Toxicity Warning

Cats
Non-toxic

Medicago minima is not known to be toxic to cats. There are no reported cases of adverse effects in felines after ingestion of this plant.

⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

While non-toxic, monitor your pet for any unusual behavior after ingestion of any plant material.
Dogs
Non-toxic

Medicago minima is not known to be toxic to dogs. There are no reported cases of adverse effects in canines after ingestion of this plant.

⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

While non-toxic, monitor your pet for any unusual behavior after ingestion of any plant material.
Humans
Non-toxic

Medicago minima, commonly known as bur medick, is generally considered non-toxic to humans. It is not known to produce any significant toxic compounds that would cause adverse effects upon ingestion.

⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

While non-toxic, excessive consumption of any plant material is not recommended. Always ensure proper identification before consumption.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Is Medicago minima edible?

A: While it is not commonly consumed, the plant is not highly toxic and can be used as forage for livestock.

Q: Does Bur Clover attract wildlife?

A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and other pollinators due to its flowers.

Q: How does Medicago minima spread?

A: It spreads via its bur-like seed pods that cling to animals and clothing, facilitating dispersal.

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