Definition

Noun: * A low-growing, spreading annual or short-lived perennial legume (Medicago lupulina), native to Europe and Asia but widely naturalized elsewhere. It is characterized by small, clover-like leaves, dense clusters of tiny yellow flowers, and distinctive coiled, black seed pods. Commonly known as black medick or hop clover.

Usage

• is often found in lawns, roadsides, and disturbed ground.
• The plant is sometimes used as a forage crop or as a green manure.
• You can identify by its black, coiled seed pods.

Examples

• The field was dotted with the yellow flowers of .
• can be a common weed in turfgrass.
• Botanists studied the nitrogen-fixing properties of .

Advanced Usage

• In ecological studies, is noted for its ability to thrive in poor, dry soils.
• The presence of in a pasture mix can improve soil fertility.

Variants and Related Words

• Black Medick: The most common common name for this species.
• Hop Clover: Another common name, though it is not a true clover (genus ).
• Nonesuch: A regional name sometimes used.
• Yellow Trefoil: A descriptive name referring to its flower color and three-part leaves.

Synonyms

• Black medick
• Hop clover

Notes

• As a proper botanical name (the scientific binomial), is typically written in italics. The genus name () is capitalized, while the species epithet () is not.

Noun

1. prostrate European herb with small yellow flowers and curved black pods; naturalized in North America