Alfalfa

Medicago sativa, Fabaceae

Zones

2a–9b

Layer

Herbaceous

Lifespan

Perennial

Growth

Fast

Guild Roles

Ground CoverDynamic AccumulatorNitrogen Fixer

Growing Conditions

Sun

Full Sun (optimal)

Water

LowLow

Soil pH

6.5 – 7.5

Tolerances

Drought

Frost

Heat

Pest Resistance

Disease Resist.

Companion Plants

Little-leaf LindenTilia cordata

Shade ProvisionPollinator Sharing

SourwoodOxydendrum arboreum

Shade ProvisionPollinator Sharing

AppleMalus domestica

Nitrogen Fixation

Sweet CherryPrunus avium

Red CloverTrifolium pratense

Nitrogen FixationPollinator Sharing

Birdsfoot TrefoilLotus corniculatus

Nitrogen FixationPollinator Sharing

Crimson CloverTrifolium incarnatum

Nitrogen FixationPollinator Sharing

TagasasteChamaecytisus palmensis

Nitrogen FixationWind Protection

RosemarySalvia rosmarinus

Nitrogen FixationPest Deterrent

YellowwoodCladrastis kentukea

Nitrogen FixationPollinator Sharing

Uses

Functions

Nitrogen FixationSoil BuildingFodder

Edible Parts

Leaves

Common Questions

What zones does Alfalfa grow in?

Alfalfa grows in USDA hardiness zones 2a through 9b.

Is Alfalfa a nitrogen fixer?

Yes, Alfalfa is a nitrogen fixer and can help provide nitrogen to neighboring plants in a guild or polyculture.

What are good companion plants for Alfalfa?

Good companions for Alfalfa include Little-leaf Linden, Sourwood, Apple, Sweet Cherry, Peach.

Design guilds with Alfalfa and see companion relationships visually.

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