SELENA is a variety of variable alfalfa (Medicago sativa L. nothosubsp. varia) intended for cultivation in the North-West region of Russia, specifically in the Vologda region. The plant is characterized by medium height in spring, semi-erect bushes, and green leaves with a central leaflet of medium length and width. Flowers are mostly absent or occur at very low frequency in blue-violet, cream, white, or yellow shades. Stems of medium length when fully blooming. Average dry matter yield is 89.0 c/ha, which exceeds the standard by 1.6 c/ha. During testing, the variety demonstrated high disease resistance.
Alfalfa SELENA possesses valuable nectar-producing properties. Under favorable conditions, it is capable of producing a significant nectar yield, which contains up to 50% sugar and serves as the basis for clear or golden-yellow honey that quickly crystallizes into thick cream. Moreover, alfalfa improves soil fertility by enriching it with nitrogen and promoting the formation of a strong granular structure. Plants accumulate nitrogen in the soil in an amount equivalent to 40-60 tons of manure, making it an excellent precursor for cotton, cereals, and other crops, as well as an effective means of fighting weeds in dense vegetation.
In addition to agronomic merits, alfalfa SELENA has significant dietary and therapeutic value. Seeds are small, mustard-colored, with a bitter taste, allowing them to be used as a spice. Alfalfa is rich in vitamins A, E, K, C, PP and almost the entire group of vitamins B, as well as microelements — magnesium, potassium, calcium, iron, fluorine, and rare flavonoids with antioxidant properties. These components contribute to strengthening immunity, relieving inflammation and painful spasms. Alfalfa is used to reduce stomach ulcers, relieve arthritis symptoms, prevent fluid retention in the body, as well as for the prevention of strokes, certain types of cancer, and heart diseases. Alfalfa sprouts help control bad cholesterol levels and are recommended for diabetics to lower blood glucose levels.
