Alfafas

Alfafas, also known as lucerne or alfalfa, is a genus of flowering plants in the legume family Fabaceae, subfamily Papilionoideae. The genus is represented by approximately 35 species, all of which are native to temperate regions of the Old World, with the center of diversity in the Mediterranean region. Alfafas are perennial herbs, typically growing to a height of 0.5 to 1.5 meters, and are known for their attractive, pea-like flowers that are usually blue or purple.

The most well-known species is Medicago sativa, commonly known as alfalfa. It is widely cultivated for its edible seeds, which are used as animal feed, and for its high-quality hay. Alfafas are also valued for their ability to fix nitrogen in the soil, making them an important component of sustainable agriculture. The genus includes several other species, such as Medicago arabica, which is native to the Middle East and North Africa, and Medicago polymorpha, which is native to Europe and Western Asia.

Alfafas are adapted to a wide range of soil types and climates, and they are often used in rotation with other crops to improve soil health. They are also used in silvopastoral systems, where they are grown alongside trees to provide both forage and shade. Alfafas are an important part of many traditional and modern agricultural systems, and they continue to be a subject of research and development in the field of plant science.