About
Also known as 'alfalfa'or 'purple medic' this herbaceous perennial legume with a deep tap-root and clover-like green foliage produces small purple flowers in the summer followed by flat pea-like fruits. Used in many countries as animal food or as a green crop as it improves nutrient levels in the soil and also soil quality by reducing compaction, also reducing the need for synthetic fertilisers.
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
AspectEast-facing, North-facing, South-facing, West-facing
ExposureExposed, Sheltered
UK hardinessH7
Plant details
Plant typeHerbaceous Perennial, Annual Biennial
HabitBushy
FoliageDeciduous
Height0.5-1 metres
Spread0.5-1 metres
Time to full height1-2 years
Suggested usesWildflower meadow, Wildlife gardens
Care notes
CultivationWill grow in most situations including poor, dry soil
PruningNo pruning required
PropagationPropagate from seed sown in autumn
Pest resistanceMay be susceptible to alfalfa weevil, leafhoppers and spotted aphids
Disease resistanceMay be susceptible to bacterial wilt