Vascular Plants of the Gila Wilderness
Presented in Association with the
Western New Mexico University Department
of Natural Sciences
Medicago lupulina Linnaeus
(Black Medick)
Family: Fabaceae
Status: Exotic
Synonyms:
None
Medicago lupulina is ubiquitous on dry ground throughout most of the Gila from
lower elevations up to over 9000 feet. It has ovate trifoliate leaves and globose
pale yellow flower heads. It can also be found in town in cracks in the sidewalk. The fruits are small and coiled into a kidney shape. Eventually the fruits turn black, giving rise to the common name "Black Medick."
Please click on an image for a larger file.

Medicago lupulina, photo Russ Kleinman, Pinos Altos Range, signal Peak turnoff, July 2, 200

Medicago lupulina, photo Russ Kleinman, Bill Norris, Kelly Kindscher & Danielle Walkup, Mogollon Mtns., Bursum Road, July 23, 2008

Medicago lupulina, inflorescence, photo Russ Kleinman & Karen Blisard, Pinos Altos Range, Meadow Creek, Oct. 10, 2008

Medicago lupulina, 1x macro of inflorescence, photo Russ Kleinman, Karen & Evelyn Blisard, Silver City, sidewalk in front of Adobe Springs, Jan. 9, 2009

Medicago lupulina, 3x macro of inflorescence, photo Russ Kleinman, Karen & Evelyn Blisard, Silver City, sidewalk in front of Adobe Springs, Jan. 9, 2009

Medicago lupulina, 5x macro of inflorescence, photo Russ Kleinman, Karen & Evelyn Blisard, Silver City, sidewalk in front of Adobe Springs, Jan. 9, 2009

Medicago lupulina, 1x macro of coiled fruits, photo Russ Kleinman, Karen & Evelyn Blisard, Silver City, sidewalk in front of Adobe Springs, Jan. 9, 2009

Medicago lupulina, 2x macro of coiled fruits, photo Russ Kleinman, Karen & Evelyn Blisard, Silver City, sidewalk in front of Adobe Springs, Jan. 9, 2009
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