Little Bur-clover (Medicago minima)

Little Bur-clover

Medicago minima

Tiny, low-growing clover with delicate blooms, a hardy ground cover. Annual herbaceous plant; common name: little bur-clover.

Full sun
1–2/week
Beginner
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Plant Needs

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Sunlight Full sun to partial shade; thrives in open, sunny locations and tolerates poor soil conditions
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Watering Drought-tolerant; water only when the top 2–3 cm of soil is completely dry to avoid root rot
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Temperature Hardy to mild frosts; performs best in warm, sunny temperate or arid climates
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Characteristics

  • Leaf: Trifoliate leaves with obovate leaflets and finely serrated margins.
  • Flower: Small yellow pea-like blooms in dense clusters of 2–5 flowers.
  • Fruit: Spiny, coiled bur-like pods that cling to fur or clothing for seed dispersal.
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Care Guide

Watering

Water sparingly during active growth; allow soil to dry between waterings

Fertilization

Apply diluted compost tea once at the start of growth. No regular fertilization needed; the plant tolerates low-nutrient soils

Banana peel tea:Soak chopped banana peels in water for 3 days; dilute 1:20 with water for root drench to support flowering and fruit development
Pruning
  • Trim back dead foliage after flowering to tidy planting areas.
  • Remove spent flower clusters to prevent excessive self-seeding if desired.
  • Thin dense patches to improve airflow and reduce potential pest habitat.
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Toxicity

Warning: this plant may be toxic.

Pets & Humans

Pets: ASPCA confirmed non-toxic; no risk of poisoning from ingestion

Humans: Non-toxic to humans; no known adverse health effects from ingestion or contact

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Garden Uses & Culture

Culture: N/A

Usage: Ground cover, forage for livestock, erosion control in dry areas