Definition

Noun: * A leguminous plant: A perennial flowering plant in the pea family (Fabaceae), scientifically known as Medicago sativa. It is cultivated primarily as an important forage crop for livestock. * A forage and hay crop: It is grown widely to be used as pasture for grazing animals, or cut and dried to make hay.

Usage

• is valued for its high nutritional content and ability to improve soil quality.
• Farmers often rotate with other crops to replenish nitrogen in the soil.

Examples

• The field was planted with to provide winter feed for the cattle.
• , commonly known as alfalfa, is one of the world's most important forage crops.

Advanced Usage

• In botanical and agricultural contexts, the scientific name is used for precision to distinguish it from other species within the genus.
• The plant is also studied for its phytochemical properties and potential health benefits.

Variants and Related Words

• Alfalfa (n): The common name for .
• Lucerne (n): A common name for , used primarily in British English and other Commonwealth countries.

Synonyms

• Alfalfa
• Lucerne

Related Phrases

• Alfalfa hay: Dried , used as animal fodder.
• Alfalfa sprout: The young, germinated shoots of the plant, consumed by humans.

Noun

1. important European leguminous forage plant with trifoliate leaves and blue-violet flowers grown widely as a pasture and hay crop