Botanical name: Medicago polymorpha
Common Names
Burr medic, Burr clover, Spiny medic
Burr medic is a common annual broadleaf weed found throughout Australia, particularly in lawns, garden beds, roadsides, and disturbed soils. It is well adapted to Mediterranean climates and is widespread across Western Australia, especially during the cooler months.
Burr medic is a low-growing, prostrate plant that forms dense mats across the ground. It spreads readily by seed and thrives in nitrogen-rich soils. Like other legumes, it has the ability to fix nitrogen, which can improve soil fertility but also supports its aggressive growth in turf and garden settings.
The plant produces trifoliate leaves (three leaflets), similar in appearance to clover. Leaves are small, rounded, and often have a slight notch at the tip. Yellow pea-like flowers appear in clusters during late winter and spring.
Burr medic is most easily identified by its distinctive seed pods—small, coiled burrs covered in hooked spines. These burrs attach easily to clothing, pets, and machinery, aiding in widespread dispersal.
This weed is highly competitive in lawns and garden beds, particularly during winter and spring in Western Australia. It can dominate turf areas if left unmanaged and is often an indicator of compacted or nutrient-rich soils.
Similar Species
Clover (Trifolium spp.)
SCENARIOS AND SOLUTIONS:
In garden beds: Use Apparent Salvo or Apparent Glyphosate
In lawns: Use selective broadleaf herbicides such as Apparent Bow and Arrow. Also use pre-emergent such as Spartan Herbicide for prevention
