Alfalfa

Alfalfa

Geography/History:
Alfalfa, Medicago sativa, also called lucerne , is a perennial flowering plant in the pea family Fabaceae cultivated
as an important forage crop in many countries around the world. The English name alfalfa is widely used,
particularly in North America and Australia. But in the UK, [3] South Africa and New Zealand, the more commonly
used name is lucerne. It superficially resembles clover , with clusters of small purple flowers followed by fruits
spiralled in 2 to 3 turns containing 10-20 seeds. Alfalfa is native to a warmer temperate climate such as that of
Iran (where it is thought to have originated). It has been cultivated as livestock fodder since at least the era of
the ancient Greeks and Romans.
Nutritional Value:
This food is low in Saturated Fat and Sodium, and very low in Cholesterol. It is also a good source of Protein,
Vitamin A, Niacin and Calcium, and a very good source of Dietary Fiber, Vitamin C, Vitamin K, Thiamin,
Riboflavin, Folate.
Planting/Growing Tips:
Primarily consumed as a sprout, follow general sprouting directions for your particular sprouting
system. Alfalfa sprouts are known as “The King of Sprouts”!