BLACK MEDIC
Medicago lupulina
Plant Characteristics
Height:
2" - 30"
Stem:
Angled or square with soft hairs
Leaves:
Alternate with 3 oval leaves, 3/4” long, toothed
Flower:
Small, yellow globe shaped clusters
Bloom Time:
May to SeptemberBlack medic often hides in grasses and may be overlooked because of the small flower size. It grows close to the ground, preventing germination of native plants and can quickly take over an area indense colonies.
Hand Pull
Hand pull the shallow roots.
Organic Method
Covering the smaller plants can be effective to reduce their exposure to light.
Cultural Plant Alternatives:
Woodland Strawberry
This low-lying plant will creep across the garden providing sweet edible fruit. It prefers part-shade to full shade, blooming May to August. The fruit can be used in a variety of recipes for jams, jellies, and pies. It can be eaten raw, dried, or cooked.
Pasque Flower
The pasque flower is the first to grow in prairies in the spring and prefers uncrowded conditions. A tincture can be made out of the collected flowers to treat headaches, hormonal changes, and nerve pain. Small doses are recommended.
