Also known as Alfalfa Arbórea · Shrub Medick · Tree Alfalfa
Moon Trefoil (Medicago arborea) is an evergreen shrub native to the Mediterranean region, known for its bright yellow, pea-like flowers and trifoliate leaves.
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Full Sun
100% intensity
Prefers at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight daily.
Moderate
50% intensity
Allow soil to dry slightly between waterings. Reduce in winter.
Well-drained
50% intensity
Moderate
50% intensity
Prefers warm temperatures, but can tolerate some frost.
Low
25% intensity
Feed sparingly during growing season.
Safety information from plant toxicity data
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Toxic for humans | No 0/5 intensity |
| Toxic for pets | No 0/5 intensity |
None
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Water regularly, allowing the soil to dry out slightly between waterings. Reduce watering significantly during winter dormancy. Avoid overwatering, as this can lead to root rot, especially in cooler temperatures.
Ensure good drainage to prevent waterlogged conditions.
Prune to maintain desired shape and size, and to encourage bushier growth. Remove dead, damaged, or crossing branches. Light pruning can be done in spring after flowering.
Harder pruning should be done in late winter or early spring before new growth begins.
Propagate from semi-hardwood cuttings taken in late summer or early autumn. Use a rooting hormone to improve success rates.
Plant cuttings in a well-draining potting mix and keep them in a warm, humid environment until they root. Alternatively, sow seeds in spring.
Repot established plants every 2-3 years in spring, or when they become root-bound. Use a well-draining potting mix, such as a cactus or succulent mix.
Choose a pot that is only slightly larger than the current one to avoid overwatering issues.
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Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of Moon Trefoil (Medicago arborea)
Where Moon Trefoil (Medicago arborea) is found
Density
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Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Division | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Fabales |
| Family | Fabaceae |
| Genus | Medicago |
| Species | Medicago arborea |
Similar in genus Medicago
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data
