Snail medick (Medicago scutellata)

Snail medick

Also known as: Shield medick

They are annual, pubescent plants. It has stems that reach a size of 20-8O cm, decumbent or ascending. 10-20 x 9-15 mm leaflets, the inferior ones from suborbicular to obovate, the superiors sub-morphic, serrated at the top. Pedunculated inflorescences of 1.5 to 2.5 cm, with 1-3 flowers. Corolla with wings as long as the keel or slightly shorter, yellow.

Scientific classification

Species

Snail medick (Medicago scutellata)

Legumes, milkworts and allies

Instantly identify plants with a snap

Snap a photo for instant plant ID, gaining quick insights on disease prevention, treatment, toxicity, care, uses, and symbolism, etc.

Download the App for Free

Spring, Early summer

Bloom Time

20 cm to 50 cm

Plant Height

1 cm

Flower Size

Yellow

Flower Color

Semi-evergreen

Leaf type

20 - 38 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Distribution of Snail medick

Distribution Map

Snail medick is native to the Mediterranean region and parts of Eastern Europe, thriving in climates characterized by wet winters and hot, dry summers. Beyond its original range, snail medick has been introduced to regions across South America, Europe, and East Asia, adapting to new environments as a cultivated species.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

Discover plant distribution and habitat

Gain insights into where plants thrive and how they adapt, helping you identify, cultivate, and protect them with essential information on habitats, distribution maps, and climate trends.

Download the App for Free

Culture

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.

Get quick plant knowledge with a snap

Snap a photo for instant plant identification and learn about its name, symbolism, interesting facts, uses, and more.

Download the App for Free

Care Guide for Snail medick

Every week

Water

Full sun

Sunlight

20 - 38 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Water: Snail medick thrives in Mediterranean climates, preferring dry conditions and exhibiting drought tolerance. It typically requires weekly watering for optimal health. Best cultivated outdoors, snail medick benefits from natural rainfall and needs well-draining soil resembling its native habitat.

Fertilize: To nourish snail medick, use balanced or high-nitrogen fertilizers during growth phases, applying monthly. Reduce in dormancy, following label guidelines to prevent nutrient burn. Water soil before fertilizing for better absorption, promoting robust growth and vitality in snail medick through seasonal adjustments.

Pruning: Snail medick thrives with pruning in early to late spring to remove dead stems, promote denser foliage, and maintain shape. This enhances airflow, prevents fungal issues, and aligns with its growth phase, leading to healthier development and improved flowering for a robust garden presence.

Propagation: Snail medick is a perennial herbaceous plant with curled seed pods resembling a snail's shell. Propagation involves sowing seeds in well-drained soil or modular trays, maintaining consistent moisture without waterlogging. Favorable temperatures aid germination, and thinning seedlings promotes robust growth and nutrient access.

Get tips and tricks for your plants.

Keep your plants happy and healthy with our guide to watering, lighting, feeding and more.

Download the App for Free

Learn More About Snail medick

How to Transplant

How to Prune

How to Grow and Care

Plant disease auto-diagnose & prevention

AI-powered plant doctor helps you diagnose plant problems in seconds.

Download the App for Free