Barrel clover (Medicago truncatula)

Barrel clover

Barrel clover (Medicago truncatula) is a self-fertilizing plant that resembles clover. It is a common food source for grazing livestock. Due to its peculiar genetic characteristics, like rapid generation and genetic transformation, it is used for genome sequencing. In terms of appearance, it has small dark-green leaves with a thin stem.

Scientific classification

Species

Barrel clover (Medicago truncatula)

Legumes, milkworts and allies

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Annual

Lifespan

Yellow

Flower Color

Deciduous

Leaf type

20 - 38 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Images of Barrel clover

Distribution of Barrel clover

Distribution Map

Barrel clover, a leguminous plant, is native to the Mediterranean region and adjacent areas of Europe and parts of Asia. Its natural distribution spans major regions in Southern Europe, Northern Africa, and parts of Western Asia. Barrel clover has also spread as an introduced species across other temperate zones, including parts of South America and Eastern Europe.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

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Habitat

Grassy areas, disturbed sites, roadsides

Hemisphere Trend Curve

Northern

Sorthern

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.

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Care Guide for Barrel clover

Every week

Water

Full sun

Sunlight

20 - 38 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Water: Originating from the Mediterranean, barrel clover thrives in moderately dry conditions, requiring weekly watering to prevent over or under-watering. This resilient herb efficiently uses water during its growing season, adapting well to periods of limited rainfall.

Pruning: Barrel clover requires well-draining soil and full sunlight. Prune from early to late spring to remove dead stems, promoting healthy growth and flowering. Use clean, sharp tools for pruning, and maintain regular care to enhance air circulation and light penetration for optimal health.

Propagation: Barrel clover is a model organism for legume research, known for its small genome and rapid life cycle. Seeds require scarification for germination and thrive in well-draining soil with consistent moisture and full sunlight. They are hardy due to high fertility and nitrogen-fixing properties.

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