Overview
Medicago polymorpha L. var. polygyra (Urban) Shinners is a plant species indigenous to the Mediterranean region of Europe, Africa, and Asia, but can now be found worldwide due to its ability to grow in a variety of soils and climates. This plant belongs to the Fabaceae family, which is popularly known as the pea family and comprises hundreds of species.
Common Names
The Medicago polymorpha L. var. polygyra (Urban) Shinners is commonly known as bur clover, California bur clover, toothed bur clover and barrel medic.
Uses
The Medicago polymorpha L. var. polygyra (Urban) Shinners has several uses such as forage for livestock, soil improvement, and food for humans. It is known to have a high protein content and is sometimes consumed by humans as a vegetable, or as sprouts in salads. The plant is also believed to have medicinal properties and has been used in traditional medicine to treat various ailments such as respiratory infections. The seeds of the plant have also been used as a coffee substitute in some cultures.
General Appearance
The Medicago polymorpha L. var. polygyra (Urban) Shinners is an annual plant that can easily be recognized by its clover-like appearance. The leaves of the plant are trifoliate, and the flowers are small, yellow, and pea-like. The plant can grow up to 50 centimeters tall and produces small, barbed fruits or seedpods that can stick to clothing or animal fur, aiding in the plant's seed dispersal. The stem of the plant is erect, although it can also be prostrate, and it is covered in fine hairs that give it a fuzzy appearance.
Light
Medicago polymorpha L. var. polygyra (Urban) Shinners is known to thrive in sunny locations and is not shade-tolerant. Full sun exposure is ideal for the plant's growth and development.
Temperature
The plant is native to temperate regions and can tolerate a wide range of temperatures ranging from mild to hot. The average temperature range for its growth is between 10 and 30 °C.
Soil Requirements
Medicago polymorpha L. var. polygyra (Urban) Shinners requires well-drained, loamy soils that are rich in organic matter. The soil must have a pH range of 6.0 to 8.0. The plant prefers soils that are moderately moist, but it can tolerate dry soil conditions.
Cultivation Methods
Medicago polymorpha L. var. polygyra (Urban) Shinners, commonly known as burclover or toothed medick, is a hardy plant that grows well in a wide range of soil types. It can be grown in both full sun and partial shade and can tolerate drought, heat, and cold. To cultivate this plant, begin by preparing the soil by tilling and adding organic matter to enhance moisture retention. Sow the seeds at a depth of about ¼ inch and keep the soil moist until germination occurs.
Watering Needs
As a drought-resistant plant, burclover may not require frequent watering after establishment. However, during the germination phase, the soil should be kept evenly moist to prevent the seeds from drying out. After the plants have established, water them deeply once or twice a week, depending on the prevailing weather conditions. Avoid watering too frequently as this may lead to the development of fungal diseases.
Fertilization
Burclover is a legume that has the ability to fix nitrogen in the soil, making it a low-maintenance plant that may not require additional fertilizers. However, if the soil is poor or lacking in nutrients, adding a slow-release fertilizer high in phosphorus can stimulate healthy root growth and bolster the plant's vigor.
Pruning
Burclover does not require extensive pruning as it has a relatively low-growing habit and does not produce large stems or branches. However, it is advisable to trim back any dead or damaged foliage regularly to keep the plant looking tidy and to avoid the spread of diseases. Additionally, removing spent blooms can encourage the growth of new flowers and promote a longer blooming season.
Propagation of Medicago polymorpha L. var. polygyra (Urban) Shinners
Medicago polymorpha L. var. polygyra (Urban) Shinners, also known as burclover, can be propagated through both sexual and asexual methods.
Sexual Propagation
The most common method of propagation for Medicago polymorpha is by seed. The plant produces plenty of seeds, which can be collected and sown in fall or early spring. The seeds should be sown at a depth of about 1/4 inch in well-draining soil. The seeds will germinate within 7-10 days if the soil temperature is between 59-77°F.
In addition to direct sowing, Medicago polymorpha seeds can be started indoors about 4-6 weeks before the last frost date in your area. The seedlings should be transplanted outdoors when they have four or more true leaves.
Asexual Propagation
Burclover can also be propagated through stem cuttings. The cuttings should be taken in late spring or early summer and should be about 6 inches long. Remove the lower leaves, dip the cut end in rooting hormone, and stick them in well-draining soil. Keep the soil moist and the cutting should begin to root within 2-3 weeks.
Division is another asexual method of propagation that can be used for Medicago polymorpha. It requires dividing the root clump of an established burclover plant into smaller sections. Each section should have at least one shoot and a portion of the roots, then replant them in well-draining soil.
Disease Management
Medicago polymorpha L. var. polygyra (Urban) Shinners, commonly known as burclover or California burclover, is susceptible to various diseases caused by fungi and bacteria. The common diseases affecting this plant include:
- Anthracnose
- Bacterial blight
- Crown rot
- Phytophthora root rot
- Powdery mildew
To manage these diseases, it is recommended to:
- Plant resistant varieties of Medicago polymorpha if available.
- Monitor the plants regularly for any signs of disease.
- Avoid planting in poorly drained or waterlogged soils which can contribute to root rots.
- Maintain good hygiene in the garden by removing diseased plant debris immediately.
- Apply appropriate fungicides and bactericides following instructions on the label.
- Use cultural control methods such as crop rotation to reduce the incidence of disease.
Pest Management
Medicago polymorpha is vulnerable to several pests that can cause significant damage to the plant. Common pests that target this plant include:
- Aphids
- Cutworms
- Leafhoppers
- Spider mites
- Thrips
To manage these pests, you can:
- Remove weeds and plant debris that can harbor pests.
- Use natural predators such as ladybugs to control aphids.
- Use insecticidal soap sprays or insecticides to control infestations following the label's instructions.
- Apply appropriate chemical controls only when necessary, minimizing the risk to beneficial organisms.
