Consulta Plantas

Care of the shrub Medicago arborea or Tree medic

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.

Tree medic is used to form groups and as isolated specimens; in agriculture it's grown as fodder for livestock.

Medicago arborea needs full sun exposure and warm temperatures.

The soil should be slightly alkaline and well drained; Moon trefoil can grow on stony soils.

Shrub medic is very resistant to drought plants. It needs occasional watering, more abundant in summer.

Medicago arborea resists pruning but it's not strictly necessary.

Tree medic does not need fertilizers.

Moon trefoil is a resistant plant to the usual pests and diseases.

Medicago arborea propagates by seeds sown in spring or by cuttings also in spring.

Images of the shrub Medicago arborea or Tree medic