Early Medick (Medicago praecox)

Early Medick

Medicago praecox

A low-growing, cheerful ground cover with tiny yellow blooms. Annual herbaceous legume; common name: early medick.

Full sun
1–2/week
Beginner
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Plant Needs

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Sunlight Full sun to partial shade; tolerates dry, sunny slopes and reflected heat
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Watering Water only during prolonged dry spells; drought-tolerant once established
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Temperature Hardy to light frost; thrives in cool to warm temperate conditions
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Characteristics

  • Leaf: Trifoliate, oval leaflets with serrated margins; bright green, hairless to slightly pubescent
  • Flower: Small pea-like yellow blooms in dense axillary clusters
  • Stem: Slender, prostrate to ascending stems that root at lower nodes
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Care Guide

Watering

Water occasionally during dry periods; avoid overwatering to prevent root rot

Fertilization

No regular fertilization needed; benefits from occasional compost top-dressing. Legume fixes atmospheric nitrogen, reducing fertilizer needs

Composted eggshell powder:Sprinkle a thin layer around plant base; avoid direct contact with stems to prevent irritation
Pruning
  • Trim back spent blooms to prevent unwanted self-seeding if desired
  • Remove dead foliage in late summer to tidy the planting area
  • Thin dense mats to improve airflow and reduce fungal disease risk
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Toxicity

Warning: this plant may be toxic.

Pets & Humans

Pets: ASPCA-aligned: No known toxicity to cats

Humans: No known toxic effects for human ingestion or contact

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Garden Uses & Culture

Culture: N/A

Usage: Ground cover, livestock forage, soil nitrogen fixation