Black Medick (Medicago lupulina) is an annual or biennial flowering plant native to the United Kingdom, belonging to the Fabaceae family. It is commonly found in various habitats, including grasslands, meadows, roadsides, waste grounds, and cultivated fields, across the UK.

Black Medick thrives in nutrient-rich, well-drained soils, often favouring open habitats with full sun. It can tolerate a wide range of soil types, including clay, loam, and sandy soils, making it adaptable to different environmental conditions.

Predators of Black Medick include herbivores such as grazing mammals and insects, which may feed on its foliage. However, its rapid growth rate and ability to regrow after grazing often make it resilient to grazing pressure.

As an annual or biennial plant, Black Medick completes its life cycle within one or two years. It forms low-growing mats of trifoliate leaves and produces clusters of small yellow flowers in spring to early summer. It reproduces via seeds, which are dispersed by wind or animals.

Culturally, Black Medick is not often referenced in folklore or traditional uses. However, it is valued for its role in soil improvement, as it is a nitrogen-fixing plant that can enhance soil fertility.

An interesting fact about Black Medick is its ability to colonise disturbed habitats and act as a pioneer species, helping to stabilise soil and prepare the ground for the establishment of other plant species. Additionally, its flowers are attractive to pollinators such as bees and butterflies, contributing to local biodiversity.