The profile of tropical alfalfa in Indonesia: A review

Alfalfa (Medicago sativa L.), or lucerne, is a subtropical plant popularly known as the “Queen of Forages”. It has a superior nutritional profile that includes high levels of crude protein, secondary metabolites, as well as macro and micro minerals, making it one of the best feed fodders in the world. Alfalfa is also highly adaptable to both warm and cold climates in addition to being highly nutritious. These features have led to the cultivation of alfalfa in tropical areas, such as Indonesia. Studies have been conducted on the vegetative and generative aspects of alfalfa cultivation in tropical regions to increase crop yield and sustainability. Progress in the cultivation and use of alfalfa in tropical regions has been encouraging and has led to the potential emergence of a new stock, namely tropical alfalfa, which is now a high-quality green forage source in tropical regions. Cultivation of tropical alfalfa provides breeders with a high-quality feed, leading to significant improvement in the condition and health of livestock and an increase in the production of meat, milk, and eggs. This review will be very important source of information not only for researchers but also for businessman who have a concern to develop alfalfa tropic either for feed or food (growth characteristic, function and nutrient content).