Sainfoin

Psoralea onobrychis

This plant has large, broad ovate- pointed leaves, up to 6-7 inches in length and 2-3 inches wide, appearing in groups of three on long stalks.  The plant puts up stems with spikes of blue-purple flowers; the spike is about 6 inches long, 1 inch or a bit more in diameter, and each purple floret about 1/2 inch long.  The florets have a snapdragon-like form, as the plant belongs to the pea family (Leguminosae).

A native species, it is related to many others in Eurasia that serve as important fodder plants. The name derives from French, meaning "healthy hay" (sain foin).

3-5 feet, sun.

Summer (June-July).

11 July 2020.

Sainfoin, 11 July 2020.