Family: Fabaceae
[Medicago virginica L.]
Emmet J. Judziewicz
Emmet J. Judziewicz
Etymology: Lespedeza: after Cespedez, Spanish governor of east Flordia in late 18th century
Plants: erect, perennial, 1'-4' tall forb, 1 to a few stems
Leaves: 3-parted, the leaflets narrow; pointing upward on long-stalks
Flowers: pink to purple, 5-parted, 3/8" long, irregular shape; inflorescence a small, leafy, crowded cluster (raceme) of stalked flowers, leaves below the cluster longer than its stalk; blooms July-Sept.
Habitat: dry; woods; in rocky, sandy soil
Conservation Status: Threatened
Plants: erect, perennial, 1'-4' tall forb, 1 to a few stems
Leaves: 3-parted, the leaflets narrow; pointing upward on long-stalks
Flowers: pink to purple, 5-parted, 3/8" long, irregular shape; inflorescence a small, leafy, crowded cluster (raceme) of stalked flowers, leaves below the cluster longer than its stalk; blooms July-Sept.
Habitat: dry; woods; in rocky, sandy soil
Conservation Status: Threatened
Floristic Rating: Coefficient of Conservatism = 10 WIS DNR-Bureau of Endangered Resources: Detailed information on Wisconsin listed species including state and federal status, photos, etc. Atlas of the Wisconsin Prairie and Savanna Flora: by T.S. Cochrane & H.H. Iltis: habitat, distribution infomation / flowering and fruiting times USDA Plants Database: Federal Distribution and detailed information including photos USDA Agricultural Research Service (ARS): Images of seeds, fruits, embryos, etc. Dan Tenaglia's The Missouri Flora: Fabulous photographs; detailed descriptions; color and leave arrangement key. Illinois Wildflowers: Wonderful photographs; detailed descriptions; color and leaf arrangement key
Emmet J. Judziewicz
June M. Dobberpuhl