BLACK MEDIC
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BLACK MEDIC

Medicago lupulina
BEAN FAMILY (Fabaceae)

Identification

  • Flowering time - May, June, July, August
  • Common in disturbed sites at FF and NW
  • Inconspicuous low-growing plant
  • Bright yellow, small round flower heads
  • Clover-like leaflets in groups of 3
  • BLACK MEDIC
  • BLACK MEDIC
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This naturalized annual or short-lived perennial was introduced from Eurasia. The stems are numerous and they usually stay close to the ground (C). The leaves are in threes (trifoliolate), similar to clover leaves (A).  Pea-like flowers are bright yellow, tiny and numerous; they form a round head less than 1/2 inch across (B).

Common in disturbed areas including trails and roadsides at both Fontenelle Forest and Neale Woods.  Flowering occurs from May through August.

This is one of several plants thought to be the true Irish shamrock. Black Medick has spread widely from yards and fields to parks, roadsides and forest edges.

Other common names include Hop Clover and Nonesuch.

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