About
This annual or short-lived perennial with a deep tap root, sprawling stems that become mat-like in mown grass, and small, hairy, clover-like leaves. Small, yellow, clover-like flowers, from mid-spring to early autumn, are followed by black seed pods.
About the genus
Medicago are annuals, perennials or small shrubs. Leaves have three leaflets and may be light, yellow-, mid- or blue-green. Their short sprays of pea-like flowers are attractive to bees and butterflies
Growing conditions
SunlightFull sun, Partial shade
Soil typeChalk, Clay, Loam, Sand
Soil pHAcid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureMoist but well-drained, Well-drained
AspectWest-facing, East-facing, South-facing, North-facing
ExposureExposed, Sheltered
UK hardinessH7
Plant details
Plant typeHerbaceous Perennial, Annual Biennial
HabitTrailing
FoliageDeciduous
Height0.1-0.5 metres
Spread0.1-0.5 metres
Time to full height1-2 years
Suggested usesWildlife gardens, Wildflower meadow
Native toEurope (except extreme N), naturalised N America
Care notes
CultivationWill grow in most situations including poor, dry soil. Often appears in lawns; see clover in lawns for more information. May be grown as green manure; see our video How to grow and sow green manure for advice
PruningNo pruning required
PropagationPropagate from seed sown in autumn
Pest resistanceGenerally pest-free
Disease resistanceGenerally disease-free