Alfalfa Facts
Alfalfa Facts
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| Interesting Alfalfa Facts: |
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| Alfalfa is herbaceous plant that has woody base and multi-branching stem that can reach 3 feet in height. |
| Alfalfa has deep root system that can grow to the depth of 49 feet. Strong root system can prevent erosion of the soil. |
| Alfalfa has green leaves composed of three oval or oblong leaflets (trifoliate). Upper part of the leaves is smooth, bottom side is hairy. |
| Alfalfa produces 10 to 35 purple flowers arranged in clusters (racemose inflorescence). Flowers are rich source of nectar which attracts various insects, including bees, main pollinators of alfalfa. |
| First flowers appear usually one year after planting. Alfalfa can bloom during the spring, summer or fall, depending on the planting season. |
| Fruit of alfalfa is spirally coiled pod that can be smooth or hairy. Each pod contains 10 to 20 seed. |
| Alfalfa can be propagated via seed or buds that grow from the crown (swollen part of the root). Part of the plant above the root can be removed up to 11 times per year without affecting ability of plant to re-grow. |
| Alfalfa is cultivated mainly as animal fodder due to high protein content and good nutritional value. Hay or fresh alfalfa is used as food for horses, sheep, cows and goats. |
| Alfalfa needs to be used carefully, because it can induce bloating in cattle. Also, alfalfa contains phytoestrogens (type of plant hormones) that can reduce fertility in cows and sheep. |
| Word "alfalfa" originates from Persian language and it means "horse power". This plant was used in the ancient times as basic food for horses during the battles. |
| Alfalfa can be also used in human diet in the form of sprouting seed and honey (made of nectar extracted from alfalfa flowers). |
| Alfalfa is rich source of proteins, vitamins C, D, K and vitamins of the B group and minerals such as phosphorus, zinc and manganese. |
| Alfalfa is used in traditional medicine to treat kidney and gastrointestinal disorders. |
| Alfalfa is one of the most important crops in the world. Nearly 450 million tons of this plant are produced each year. |
| Alfalfa is perennial plant that usually lives from 3 to 8 years. In some areas it can survive up to 20 years. |
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