Black Medic (Medicago lupulina)

Black Medic (Medicago lupulina)

Often confused with white clover, black medic has 3 leaflet, clover-like leaves. Low growing with trailing stems. Clusters of small, bright yellow flowers appear in late spring or early summer. An annual that can persist as a perennial, black medic is common in lawns from May through September. It grows in dry, high phosphorus, compact soils and enjoys full sun. It will take over and thrive in areas with weak, patchy grass.

Structure: Several branched at base, spreading to form a patch 6″ to 18″ wide

Life Cycle: Annual

What To Look For: Yellow clover-like blossoms three leaves per node

Growth Period: Flowers mostly in April to June – will disappear under high-temperature stress