Yellow Alfalfa

At maturity, this species reaches approximately 1-3 feet tall, presenting Compound leaves with three leaflets; leaflets are oblong and serrated along with Yellow flowers that are clustered in heads, followed by Pods containing 1-2 seeds. These features are supported by a reliable Deep taproot system, ensuring stability and sustained growth.

Native to Central Asia and Mediterranean regions, Yellow Alfalfa thrives in Well-drained soils in grasslands and open areas at elevations around Sea level to 2,000 meters. Best suited for USDA Hardiness Zone 5 to 8. Whether grown indoor, in a curated garden or a more natural setting, its ecological requirements help maintain its vigor over time.

You can use our free plant identify app PlantPlants to chose the best spot for Yellow Alfalfa, This plant prefers Full sun to partial shade and flourishes in Well-drained sandy or loamy soils with a soil pH of about 6.0 to 7.5.

Yellow Alfalfa needs watering,Moderate; drought-tolerant once established, guided by PlantPlants app, You can get plants daily watering schedule. to maintain Prefers slightly dry to moderate moisture, ensure steady hydration. Applying water through Soil soak or drip irrigation supports even distribution and helps prevent overwatering or dryness.

Yellow Alfalfa performs best within 60 F to 80 F (15 C to 27 C). Its ideal growth occurs at around 70 F (21 C), though it tolerates ranges from Min 40 F (4 C); Max 90 F (32 C). Additionally, maintaining Low to moderate encourages healthy foliage and overall plant vigor.

Feeding with Nitrogen-rich fertilizer (if needed) at the recommended Seasonal Application Frequency on PlantPlants App keeps nutrients balanced. Incorporating Compost or well-rotted manure for nutrient replenishment enhances soil structure and fertility, while staying alert to Yellowing leaves, stunted growth helps you adjust care as needed to maintain optimal plant health.

Regular attention ensures this plant’s beauty and longevity. Early spring or late fall for Cutting back to maintain shape and promote new growth tidies its appearance, while Not typically necessary; perennial plant may be necessary as it grows, requiring a Not applicable as it is usually grown in the ground increase and a fresh Standard garden soil or meadow mix. for Staking or Support. None necessary.

During Late fall to early spring, growth may slow and some Leaf fading occurs in fall before dormancy can occur. For those looking to propagate, consider Seed sowing or division of clumps and provide Warm soil (65 F to 75 F) when starting from seed. If using cuttings, follow Infrequently propagated via cuttings to ensure successful rooting and healthy new plants.

our free plant identify and care app PlantPlants can help you diagnosisYellow Alfalfa problems.Though generally robust, keep watch for Aphids, leafhoppers and remain vigilant against Root rot, downy mildew. Implementing Crop rotation, resistant varieties and applying Insecticidal soap for pests; fungicide for diseases when issues arise will help sustain the plant thriving.

This plant pairs nicely with Other legumes, clover, grasses and shows May suppress certain weed species, making it a flexible choice for various Ground cover, forage crop, erosion control.

the Edible Parts: Leaves and flowers (sprouts). Toxicty of Yellow Alfalfa, Generally safe, but avoid excessive consumption due to potential toxicity in seeds. learning about its Cut leaves during flowering for culinary use, Salads, soups, herbal teas, and High in protein, vitamins A, C, and K can be intriguing for culinary explorers. Some traditions highlight its Traditionally used in folk medicine for digestive health or note its Used as fodder for livestock and soil improvement.

With an Not evaluated, proper Maintain genetic diversity in cultivation