Medicago sativa
(Wild Alfalfa)
Medicago sativa, Fourmile Area, Chaffee Co. 6515
Medicago sativa, Paonia River Park, Delta Co. 8572
Medicago sativa, Sylvan Lake Rd., Eagle Co. 3077
Medicago sativa, Lathrop State Park, Huerfano Co. 7690
Medicago sativa, Lathrop State Park, Huerfano Co. 7695
Medicago sativa, Fourmile Area, Chaffee Co. 6532
| Scientific Name | Medicago sativa | USDA PLANTS Symbol | MESA |
| Common Name | Wild Alfalfa | ITIS Taxonomic Serial No. | 183623 |
| Family | Fabaceae (Pea) | SEINet Reference |
Click Here |
| Description |
Life zones and habitat: Foothills and montane (4000 to 9500 ft.); roadsides, fields, openings, disturbed areas. Plant: Erect perennial bush with 5 to 25 or more erect stems 9 to 36 inches tall. Leaves: Leaves: Compound ternate leaves with narrowly lanceolate to obovate leaflets up to 1-inch long with small teeth along edges. Inflorescence: Short racemes of flowers 1/2 to 2 inches long; each typical pea-like flower about 1/3-inch long, consisting of 5 lavender or purple petals, 10 stamens, a single pistil, and a green calyx. Bloom Period: May to October. References: "Flora of Colorado" by Jennifer Ackerfield, SEINet and Illinois Wildflowers. |
BONAP Distribution Map
Map Color Key |
Colorado Status: Introduced |
© Tom Lebsack 2025
Banner photo: Castilleja rhexifolia and a brewing storm over the San Juan Mountains
I try to provide accurate, up-to-date, and relevant information, but cannot guarantee the completeness or accuracy of any information presented on this website. I use authoritative references to insure high standards of accuracy and review and update the information frequently.