Lucerne is thought to have been first cultivated, around 5,000 years ago, by the Medes people from the
region of Iran.
This pea like plant can grow to 1m and is used primarily as a stock fodder and also useful for human food. The seeds are rich in protein, calcium, other minerals, vitamins in the B group, and vitamins C,D,E and K.
Alfalfa sprouts are an important source of vitamin D2 for vegetarians.