Care of the shrub Medicago arborea or Tree medic |
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The genus Medicago, family Fabaceae, comprises 80 species of herbaceous plants and shrubs native to the Mediterranean region. Some species are: Medicago arborea, Medicago sativa, Medicago falcata, Medicago minima, Medicago citrina, Medicago arabica, Medicago littoralis. Common names: Tree medic, Alfalfa arborea, Shrub medic, Moon trefoil. This species is native to Europe. They are fast-growing shrubs that reach 2 meters (6.56 feet) in height. The characteristic trifoliate leaves have a serrated tip. The yellow flowers appear in clusters from spring to early summer. The curious fruits are spiral donut shaped pods. They are used to form groups and as isolated specimens; in agriculture they are grown as fodder for livestock. The Medicago arborea needs full sun exposure and warm temperatures. The soil should be slightly alkaline and well drained; it can grow on stony soils. They are very resistant to drought plants. They need occasional watering, more abundant in summer. They resist pruning but it's not strictly necessary. They do not need fertilizers. They are resistant plants to the usual pests and diseases. They propagate by seeds sown in spring or by cuttings also in spring. |
Images of the shrub Medicago arborea or Tree medic |
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