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Sainfoin
Sainfoin botanical plate
Field guide plate · click to zoom

Sainfoin

Onobrychis viciifolia
In the United States: Introduced

Honey bees are drawn to sainfoin for its abundant nectar and pollen, providing a significant summer forage source that supports colony buildup and honey production. Blooms peak in early to mid-summer in temperate climates, with flowers opening progressively up the stem for extended foraging opportunities. This deep-rooted legume tolerates drought and alkaline soils but benefits from rhizobial inoculation and may require staking in exposed sites to avoid wind damage.

Nectarhigh
Pollenhigh
Bloom (US) June–August
TypePerennial
Sunfull
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