Bur Medick

medicago coronata

Also known as: ["Bur Clover","Crowned Medick"]

Family: Fabaceae Genus: Medicago Category: Herbs & Weeds

Overview

A small, annual legume with trifoliate leaves and distinctive bur-like seed pods.

Benefits & Perks

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

Botanical Classification

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

Plant Characteristics

Basic Information
  • Category: Herbs & Weeds
  • Suitable Location: outdoor garden bed in a sunny area, or container in a sheltered spot
  • Suitable For:
    Beginners Busy People (low Maintenance) Wildlife Supporters
  • Is Weed: No
  • Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
  • Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–35°C"}
  • Hardiness: {"zones":"5–9"}
  • 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; suitable for Mediterranean climates.
Maintenance Level
  • Maintenance Level: low
  • Toughness Level: moderate
  • Pruning Frequency: Light pruning can be done as needed; major pruning every 2–3 years or after flowering.
  • Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; avoid heavy pruning unless necessary to control size or shape.
Care Details

Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun to partial shade; 6–8 hours of direct sunlight per day, with some afternoon shade in hot climates.

Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants 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 shade cloth in extreme heat; monitor for sunburn signs.

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.

Avoid heavy clay soils; ensure pots have drainage holes; amend with compost for better texture.

Temperature

Prefers moderate temperatures, 60–75°F (15–24°C); tolerates mild frosts but avoids prolonged cold.

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

Fertilizing

every 4–6 weeks during growing season with balanced liquid fertilizer

Apply fertilizer to moist soil to prevent root burn; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; reduce feeding in dormant periods.

Propagation

Methods

Stem cuttings or division; stem cuttings are more common for home growers.

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

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

Environment

Warm, humid environment with indirect light; maintain temperatures around 70–75°F (21–24°C).

Medium

Well-draining potting mix, such as a mix of peat, perlite, and sand.

Hormone

Rooting hormone is recommended to improve success rates.

Timeline

Roots typically develop in 3–6 weeks; new growth may appear in 2–3 months.

Tools Needed

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

Quick Tips

Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain high humidity; avoid direct sunlight during rooting.

Pruning & Repotting

Pruning Guide
Method

Use clean cuts just above a leaf node or branch junction; remove crossing or crowded stems.

Pruning Plan

Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushier growth, and remove dead or diseased parts.

Tools

Pruning shears, sterilized scissors, gloves.

Checklist

Sterilize tools; prune during dormancy or after flowering; remove dead or damaged parts.

Repotting Guide
Best Season

Spring, before the active growing season begins.

Pot Size

Increase pot size by 1–2 inches in diameter; ensure good drainage holes.

Method

Remove plant gently; trim any circling roots; place in a slightly larger pot with fresh soil; water thoroughly.

Suggestions

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

Checklist

Choose appropriate pot size; prepare fresh soil mix; handle roots carefully; water after repotting.

Advanced Care Tips

Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist

Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; avoid wetting leaves.

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 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 organic matter.

Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues

Wilting, yellowing leaves, stunted growth, or leaf drop in extreme heat or cold.

Cold Stress

Slows growth, may cause leaf discoloration, and can lead to root damage in freezing conditions.

Solution: Provide frost protection in winter; avoid overwatering in cold weather; move potted plants indoors if temperatures drop below 50°F (10°C).

Hot Stress

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

Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase watering frequency; ensure good air circulation.

Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist

Check fertilizer type; dilute properly; apply during active growth; avoid winter feeding.

Fertilizing Method

Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength; fertilize every 4–6 weeks during the growing season (spring to early fall); avoid fertilizing in winter.

Common Problems & Solutions

Yellowing of leaves in Medicago coronata can indicate nutrient deficiencies, water stress, or pathogen infestation, potentially affecting photosynthesis and overall plant health.

Wilting in Medicago coronata may result from water stress, root damage, or pathogenic infections, leading to reduced turgor pressure and impaired nutrient uptake.

Leaf spots on Medicago coronata are often caused by fungal or bacterial pathogens, leading to reduced photosynthetic efficiency and potential defoliation.

Rotting, particularly root rot, in Medicago coronata can be caused by fungal pathogens or waterlogged conditions, leading to decay of root tissues and eventual plant death.

Toxicity Warning

Cats
Non-toxic

Medicago coronata is not known to be toxic to cats. It does not pose a significant risk if ingested or handled by felines.

⚡ Toxic If:

not applicable

No specific safety precautions are required for cats exposed to this plant.
Dogs
Non-toxic

Medicago coronata is not known to be toxic to dogs. It does not pose a significant risk if ingested or handled by canines.

⚡ Toxic If:

not applicable

No specific safety precautions are required for dogs exposed to this plant.
Humans
Non-toxic

Medicago coronata is not known to exhibit toxic properties to humans. It is generally considered safe for consumption and handling.

⚡ Toxic If:

not applicable

No specific safety precautions are required for handling or consuming this plant.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Is Medicago coronata edible?

A: While not commonly consumed, it is non-toxic and could potentially be used as forage or in salads.

Q: Does this plant attract pollinators?

A: Yes, it is known to attract bees and butterflies due to its flowers.

Q: How does Medicago coronata grow?

A: It is an annual plant that prefers full sun and well-drained soil, often found in meadows and disturbed areas.

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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