Tree Medick (Medicago arborea)

Tree Medick

Medicago arborea

Its silvery foliage glows softly in sun, a drought-tough evergreen shrub. Ornamental legume; common names: tree medick, shrubby medick.

Full sun
1–2/week
Beginner
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Plant Needs

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Sunlight Full sun to partial sun; thrives in hot, arid conditions and tolerates reflected heat from hardscaping
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Watering Allow soil to dry completely between waterings; highly drought-tolerant once established
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Temperature Hardy to -10°C; avoids prolonged extreme cold or waterlogged winter soils
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Characteristics

  • Leaf: Trifoliate, silvery-gray obovate leaflets covered in soft, dense pubescence
  • Flower: Dense clusters of small, bright yellow pea-like blooms with faint honeyed scent
  • Stem: Woody, branching stems with grayish-brown, slightly fissured bark at maturity
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Care Guide

Watering

Water deeply once weekly during extended dry spells

Fertilization

Apply diluted balanced organic feed once monthly. Minimal fertilization needed; excess nitrogen can reduce flower production

Eggshell powder topdress:Crush fully dried eggshells into fine powder; sprinkle 1–2 tbsp per plant on soil surface to boost calcium levels and improve drainage
Pruning
  • Trim back leggy or overgrown branches in late winter to maintain a compact, rounded shape
  • Remove dead, damaged, or diseased stems to improve airflow and reduce pest risk
  • Deadhead spent flower clusters to encourage prolonged blooming (optional)
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Toxicity

Warning: this plant may be toxic.

Pets & Humans

Pets: ASPCA-verified non-toxic; no known adverse effects on cats

Humans: Non-toxic to humans; foliage and seeds are safe for occasional consumption in small quantities

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Garden Uses & Culture

Culture: N/A

Usage: Ornamental landscaping, erosion control on slopes, forage for livestock and pollinator habitat