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Medicago afganica, Medicago grandiflora, Medicago ladak, Medicago mesopotamica, Medicago orientalis, Medicago polia, Medicago praesativa, Medicago sogdiana, Trigonella upendrae
Alfalfa, barseem, jet, lucerne
Alfalfa /ælˈfælfə/, Medicago sativa, also called lucerne, is a perennial flowering plant in the pea family Fabaceae cultivated as an important forage crop in many countries around the world. The Spanish-Arabic (according to wiktionary and the DRAE) name alfalfa is widely used, particularly in North America and Australia. But in the UK, South Africa and New Zealand, the more commonly used name is lucerne. It superficially resembles clover, with clusters of small purple flowers followed by fruits spiralled in 2 to 3 turns containing 10-20 seeds. Alfalfa is native to warmer temperate climates. It has been cultivated as livestock fodder since at least the era of the ancient Greeks and Romans.
Medicago sativa, also known as alfalfa, is a perennial legume native to the Middle East and Asia. In Qatar, it has been found to grow in various regions, including the north and central parts of the country. Studies have shown that M. sativa is well-suited to Qatar's arid climate and can thrive in areas with suitable soil and water conditions.
Research conducted in Qatar has highlighted the plant's potential as a drought-tolerant forage crop, with high nutritional value for livestock. Additionally, M. sativa has been found to have medicinal properties, including antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities.
In terms of its distribution, M. sativa has been recorded in various habitats in Qatar, including coastal areas, wadis, and agricultural fields. However, its growth is often limited by factors such as high temperatures, salinity, and lack of rainfall.
Overall, Medicago sativa is a valuable plant species in Qatar, with potential applications in agriculture, livestock production, and traditional medicine. Further research is needed to fully explore its potential and promote its sustainable use in the country.
Alfalfa (lucerne, Medicago sativa, local names jet, barseem) in Trainah in southern Qatar, February 14, 2014
Mazra`at Turayna, Qatar
Alfalfa (Medicago sativa, local names jet, barseem) on roadside in southern Qatar, February 14, 2014Salwa Rd, Abū Nakẖlah, Qatar
Alfalfa (lucerne, Medicago sativa, local names jet, barseem) in Trainah gardens. Southern Qatar, March 5, 2014Unnamed Road, Mazra`at Turayna, Qatar
Blooming alfalfa (lucerne, Medicago sativa, local names jet, barseem) in Trainah gardens. Southern Qatar, March 5, 2014Mazra`at Turayna, Qatar
Alfalfa (lucerne, Medicago sativa, local names jet, barseem) on Green Circles (center-pivot irrigation) in Irkhaya Farms. South-western Qatar, March 29, 2014Unnamed Road, Qatar
Flower of alfalfa (lucerne, Medicago sativa, local names jet, barseem) on Green Circles (center-pivot irrigation) in Irkhaya Farms. South-western Qatar, March 29, 2014Unnamed Road, Qatar
Alfalfa (lucerne, Medicago sativa, local names jet, barseem) in sand on roadside of Salwa Road near Karaana, south-west from Doha. Qatar, April 23, 2014Salwa Rd, Qatar
Bush of alfalfa (lucerne, Medicago sativa, local names jet, barseem) near a pond on Green Circles (center-pivot irrigation) in Irkhaya (Irkaya) Farms. Qatar, April 10, 2015Unnamed Road, Qatar
Fresh leaves of alfalfa (lucerne, Medicago sativa, local names jet, barseem)(?) on Green Circles (center-pivot irrigation) in Irkhaya (Irkaya) Farms. Qatar, December 18, 2015Unnamed Road, Qatar
Flowers and fruits of alfalfa (lucerne, Medicago sativa) taken from Green Circles (center-pivot irrigation) in Irkhaya (Irkaya) Farms. Qatar, June 3, 2016Unnamed Road, QatarMedicago sativa was observed in various locations in Qatar, including Trainah in southern Qatar, where it was seen on February 14 and March 5, 2014. The plant was also found on roadside areas and in gardens, as well as on Green Circles (center-pivot irrigation) in Irkhaya Farms in south-western Qatar. Blooming alfalfa was observed in Trainah gardens on March 5, 2014, and flowers were also seen on Green Circles in Irkhaya Farms on March 29, 2014, and June 3, 2016. The plant was able to grow in sand on roadside areas, such as on Salwa Road near Karaana, and was also found near a pond on Green Circles in Irkhaya Farms. Fresh leaves were observed on Green Circles in December 2015.
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QNHG (Qatar Natural History Group) and associated people, for a possibility to participate in their field excursions and to learn about local nature.