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Bur clover
Also known as: Toothed medick, Toothed bur clover, California burclover, Bur medick
Bur clover is known by a number of names, including Medicago polymorpha, burr medic, and creeping burr. This legume is a green mulch, as it can correct nitrogen problems in soil, control erosion, and increase organic matter in the soil. It is an effective forage for sheep and can be used as an emergency forage if other crops fail. Bur clover carries the risk of becoming invasive.
Scientific classification
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15 cm to 30 cm
Plant Height
15 cm to 23 cm
Spread
Green
Leaf Color
2.5 cm
Flower Size
Black, Silver, Gray
Fruit Color
Yellow, Gold
Flower Color
Green
Stem Color
Winter dormancy
Dormancy
Deciduous
Leaf type
20 - 35 ℃
Ideal Temperature
Rapid
Growth Rate

Images of Bur clover

Distribution of Bur clover

Distribution Map
Bur clover, a widely dispersed plant, is native to regions of the Mediterranean and parts of Asia and Eastern Europe. It has become naturalized in various regions across continents such as Africa, North and South America, Southeast Asia, and the Pacific Islands. In cultivation, bur clover is sometimes thought to be beneficial for soil improvement and forage. However, bur clover may be considered invasive in certain areas, where it could potentially have an impact on local ecosystems. Despite this, bur clover is cultivated and its presence spans a significant portion of the globe.
Native
Cultivated
Invasive
Introduced
No species reported
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Habitat
Near the sea
Hemisphere Trend Curve

Culture

Symbolism
A four leaf clover is very lucky, And It is said that wearing one within your hat will allow you to see fairies.
Interesting Facts
Medick is often mistaken for clover. It is said that once while Napoleon was marching across a grassland, he found a medick. He was interested in it. When he bent down to pick it, he actually avoided a bullet that was shot and survived. So medick is known as a symbol of luck.
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Weed Control

Bur clover is a plant originating from the Mediterranean region. It is considered a weed because it's highly adaptable, resilient, and has a rapid growth rate, which allows it to compete with native species, causing ecological shifts. Moreover, it reproduces aggressively via its seeds, which are enclosed in coiled pods. These coil-shaped pods can cling to animal fur or human clothing, aiding in its dispersion. This feature can make it hard to remove from gardens. Keep an eye out for yellow flowers, hairy leaves, and coiled seed pods, these are characteristic signs of bur clover. Ensure that it is managed and controlled to prevent it from becoming a nuisance.
How to Control It
The best time to remove or restrict bur clover is before it reaches the seeding stage in late spring to early summer. To keep bur clover under control, you can:
  1. Hand-pulling: Ensure removal of the entire root system to prevent regrowth.
  2. Mulching: Apply a thick layer of organic mulch to suppress seed germination and emergence.
  3. Mowing: Regularly cut back bur clover to prevent it from flowering and setting seed.
  4. Dense planting: Grow competitive plants that overshadow bur clover, reducing its ability to thrive.
  5. Routine monitoring: Keep an eye on garden areas for early detection and prompt removal of bur clover.
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Quickly Identify Bur clover

1
Prostrate growth habit, forming dense mats on the ground.
2
Trifoliate leaf arrangement with toothed leaflets, characteristic of the bean family.
3
Small, yellow flowers and spiny, coiled seedpods for reproduction.
4
Mutualistic partnership aiding nitrogen fixation with Sinorhizobium medicae.
5
Distinctive prickly pods, grey to black, coiled like a snail shell for seed dispersal.
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RELATED: How to identify Bur clover

Care Guide for Bur clover

Every week
Water
Full sun
Sunlight
20 - 35 ℃
Ideal Temperature
Water: Bur clover originates from Mediterranean climates, demonstrating moderate drought tolerance. It thrives with consistent weekly watering in well-draining soil, managing moisture without waterlogging. Its growth is influenced by rainfall, necessitating seasonal adjustments to watering to mimic natural precipitation cycles.
Fertilize: Fertilizing bur clover enhances growth during spring using balanced fertility like 10-10-10 biweekly, reducing in summer. Start with high nitrogen for early growth, but avoid over-fertilization. Apply carefully without clumping on foliage, with minimal winter feeding. A teaspoon per plant is typically sufficient, assessing soil quality first.
Pruning: Bur clover is a low-growing plant featuring trifoliate leaves and small yellow flowers. Prune in early to late spring by removing damaged stems to enhance growth, improve air circulation, and prevent overcrowding. Regular pruning maintains shape and promotes robust foliage while controlling spread.
Propagation: The ideal propagation method for bur clover is sowing seeds in Spring. Successful germination is common with emerging seedlings. Use well-draining soil and maintain consistent moisture for optimal growth.
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