Sand lucerne (Medicago varia)
Care, watering, light and tips for Sand lucerne on Floravia.
Quick facts
- Family: Fabaceae
- Difficulty: Easy to care for
- Watering: every 5 days
- Light: Full sun
- Temperature: 5–35 °C
- Toxicity: Toxic to pets
About Sand lucerne
Medicago varia, commonly known as Hybrid Alfalfa or Mellomlusern, is a perennial forage legume resulting from the hybridization of Medicago sativa and Medicago falcata. It exhibits vigorous growth with branched stems and trifoliate leaves, producing yellow or purple flowers. It is ideal for soil improvement, as a cover crop, or in pastures for livestock, contributing nitrogen to the soil.
Native range
Europe and Western Asia
Care tips
It prefers full sun exposure for optimal development, although it tolerates some partial shade. This plant is drought-tolerant once established, but benefits from regular watering during dry periods, especially in its first year. It adapts to a wide range of soils, provided they are well-drained, preferring neutral to slightly alkaline pH. Avoid waterlogging, as it is susceptible to root diseases under excessively wet conditions.
How to save a dying Sand lucerne
- Warning signs
- Yellowish or pale leaves, stunted growth, soft or wilted stems.
- First aid
- Check drainage. If waterlogged, reduce watering. If dry, deeply hydrate.
- What kills it
- Overwatering causing root rot; also lack of specific nutrients like boron.
- Can it be saved?
- Yes, if the cause is corrected promptly. Alfalfa is resilient.