Black medick (Medicago lupulina)

Also known as: Hop clover, Nonesuch

Black medick (Medicago lupulina) grows to a height ranging from 15 to 79 cm. Initially, its stems lie flat but gradually become erect. This plant is notable for producing high-quality honey and is often cultivated for this reason. Additionally, black medick serves as a valuable pasture plant for livestock, although it is not highly favored by cattle.

In This Article

Care Tips Water Sunlight Temperature Soil Fertilize Prune Propagation Repotting

Attributes of Black medick

Lifespan

Annual, Perennial, Biennial

Plant Type

Herb

Plant Height

10 cm to 51 cm

Spread

15 cm to 30 cm

Leaf Color

Green

Flower Size

2.5 cm

Flower Color

Yellow

Images of Black medick

Quickly Identify Black medick

Trifoliate leaves with central leaflet bearing a spur

Bright yellow flowers in small rounded clusters

Kidney-shaped, coiled seed pods with single seed

Compound leaves with oval shape and serrated edge

Stem grows up to 30 inches with color varying from green to reddish-green

Scientific Classification of Black medick

Phylum

Vascular plants

Class

Dicotyledons

Order

Legumes, milkworts and allies

Family

Legume

Genus

Medicks

Species

Black medick

Planting and Growing of Black medick

Care Difficulty

Easy

Watering Schedule

Every 4 days

Sunlight Requirements

Full sun

Sunshine Duration

4-8 hours

Ideal Temperature

60-75℉

Soil Type

Potting Mix, Peat Mix

Soil pH

6-7.5

Fertilizer Type

Balanced

Pruning Season

Spring, Summer

Pruning Area

Branches, Leaves

Pruning Frequency

2 times a year

Repotting Season

Spring

Pot Type

Plastic, Ceramic

How to Water Black medick?

For Medicago lupulina, water until the soil is moist but not waterlogged. Aim for about 250 milliliters per watering session. The soil should feel damp at a depth of about two inches. This ensures the roots have sufficient moisture access without drowning the plant.

What are the symptoms of an underwatered Black medick? ›

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What Are the Sunlight Requirements for Black medick?

Sunlight Requirements: Full sun, Partial sun

Duration of light: 4 to 8 hours daily

Medicago lupulina benefits greatly from full to partial sun exposure, which aids in its vigorous growth and enhances blooms. The sunlight range of 4 to 8 hours a day optimizes its physiological processes and boosts long-term resilience.

What is the ideal sun exposure for Medicago lupulina? ›

How can I achieve ideal lighting conditions for Medicago lupulina? ›

What are the benefits of ideal lighting for Medicago lupulina? ›

What Is the Ideal Temperature Range for Black medick?

Ideal Temperature: 60 ~ 75℉

Medicago lupulina thrives best in temperatures ranging from 60°F to 75°F. This range supports optimal growth and development, providing the necessary thermal environment for active photosynthesis and metabolism. Such conditions are generally found during late spring and early summer in temperate regions.

What Soil is Best for Black medick?

Soil type: Sandy soil, Loam, Sandy loam

Soil PH: 6 ~ 7.5

Medicago lupulina thrives in well-drained soil, which prevents waterlogging and root rot. This type of soil allows for adequate air flow, promoting healthy root development, crucial for nutrient uptake and plant growth. A nutrient-rich soil provides essential minerals and nutrients that support the robust growth of Medicago lupulina. This ensures the plant remains vigorous and productive, especially during its flowering and seed-setting stages. The ideal soil for Medicago lupulina keeps moderate moisture, ensuring the roots have access to water without causing over-saturation. This balance is essential for sustained plant health and resilience against drought.

How to Fertilize Black medick?

Fertilizer type: Balanced

Medicago lupulina, commonly known as black medic, has modest fertilization needs. A general-purpose liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength is sufficient. For slow-release fertilizers, use around 50 grams per square meter once every six months to provide a consistent nutrient supply without overwhelming the plant.

How to Prune Black medick?

Pruning Time: Spring, Summer

Start by removing any dead or yellowing leaves to improve plant health and aesthetics. Trim back any overly long or unruly stems to shape the plant. Aim to cut just above a leaf node to encourage new growth. Always prune with sharp, clean tools to make clean cuts and reduce plant stress.

How to Propagate Black medick plant?

Propagate Time: Spring, Early spring, Late spring

Begin by sourcing quality Medicago lupulina seeds. It can increase germination rates to soak them in lukewarm water overnight, as it softens the seed coat and promotes faster sprouting.

Fill a seed tray with a well-draining seed-starting mix. Sow the seeds on the surface, pressing them into the soil gently. Cover with a thin layer of soil to protect the seeds and provide the necessary darkness for germination.

Ensure that the soil stays consistently moist by misting it with water. It's important not to overwater or let the soil dry out, both of which can hinder seedling development.

How to Repot Black medick plant?

Repotting frequency: Every 1-2 years

Signs that Medicago lupulina needs repotting include slowed growth and roots growing out of drainage holes. The best time to repot is during the growing seasons of spring or autumn when the plant is actively growing and can recover quickly.

Select a pot that is one size larger than the current one, ensuring it has good drainage holes to prevent water logging. A slightly larger pot provides roots with enough space to spread, promoting healthy growth and reducing the risk of root rot.

Choose well-draining loamy soil, rich in organic matter. Such soil supports healthy root growth and ensures the plant receives adequate nutrients, while also preventing water retention issues that can lead to root diseases.