Rough alfalfa
medicago rugosa
Also known as: ["Rough alfalfa","Rough medick"]
Overview
A perennial legume native to the Mediterranean region, known for its rough-textured leaves and yellow flowers.
Benefits & Perks
["drought tolerant","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","edible fruits"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Fabales |
| Family: | Fabaceae |
| Genus: | Medicago |
| Botanical Name: | Medicago rugosa |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Herbs & Weeds
- Suitable Location: raised garden bed or container in a sunny, open area
- Suitable For:
- 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 organic matter; can tolerate slightly sandy soil.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: low
- Toughness Level: high
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically every 2–3 months or after flowering.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of growth if overgrown.
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 midday sun; adjust placement based on seasonal light intensity.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easymoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant for even light exposure; use sheer curtains to filter intense sun; place near south-facing window for optimal light.
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, loamy soil 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 thrives in moderate warmth.
Avoid sudden temperature shifts; protect from drafts; maintain consistent warmth during active growth.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during growing season, none in winter
Fertilize sparingly to prevent salt buildup; flush soil occasionally to remove excess nutrients; stop fertilizing in dormancy.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or division; stem cuttings are more common for home growers.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a 4–6 inch cutting.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Keep moist and warm.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm, humid environment with indirect light; maintain consistent moisture.
Medium
Well-draining potting mix with perlite or sand; can also root in water.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is optional but recommended for faster rooting.
Timeline
Roots develop in 2–4 weeks; new growth appears in 6–8 weeks.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, well-draining medium.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain high humidity with a plastic cover; keep out of direct sun.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back tips for bushiness; cut just above a leaf node or bud.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushiness, and remove dead or diseased growth.
Tools
Clean, sharp pruning shears or scissors.
Checklist
Sanitize tools; prune dead/damaged growth; shape plant; avoid over-pruning.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before the active growing season begins.
Pot Size
Choose a pot 1–2 inches larger in diameter than the current one.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if necessary; place in new pot with fresh soil; water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for growth and soil health.
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; 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.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once the top inch of soil feels 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, or stunted growth in extreme heat or cold.
Cold Stress
Slows growth; may cause leaf drop or dormancy in prolonged cold.
Solution: Move to a warmer location; provide frost protection; reduce watering in cold periods.
Hot Stress
Leaves may scorch, wilt, or drop in excessive heat; growth may slow.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity; water more frequently but avoid waterlogging.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check growing season; dilute fertilizer; apply to moist soil; avoid contact with roots.
Fertilizing Method
Use balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season; avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicMedicago rugosa is not considered toxic to cats. The plant is not known to cause any adverse effects when ingested by felines. Its primary use is agricultural, and it is not typically associated with toxicity in pets.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Non-toxicMedicago rugosa is not known to be toxic to dogs. The plant is commonly found in pastures and is often consumed by livestock without adverse effects. There are no documented cases of toxicity in dogs from ingestion of this plant.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Non-toxicMedicago rugosa, commonly known as brown medic, is generally considered non-toxic to humans. It is a leguminous plant often used in agriculture as a forage crop and for soil improvement due to its nitrogen-fixing capabilities. There are no known toxic effects associated with its consumption.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Medicago rugosa suitable for grazing animals?
A: Yes, it is non-toxic and can be used as forage for livestock.
Q: How does Medicago rugosa benefit the soil?
A: It fixes nitrogen, improving soil fertility and structure.
Q: Does Medicago rugosa require much water?
A: No, it is drought-tolerant and thrives in dry conditions.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Fabaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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