SafePlants

Biserrula (Biserrula pelecinus)

Biserrula, scientifically known as Biserrula pelecinus, is an annual pasture legume gaining attention for its potential in Mediterranean farming systems. Often referred to simply as biserrula, it's recognized for its robust characteristics and ability to improve crop and livestock production.

Considerations for Pets

• This plant is commonly found in pastures and used as forage for livestock.

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

• Scientific Name: Biserrula pelecinus
• Common Name: Biserrula
• Family: Leguminosae (also referred to as Fabaceae)
• Sub-family: Papilionoideae
• Tribe: Galegeae
• Synonyms/Alternative Designations: The text mentions that Biserrula was often included in the genus Astragalus. Additionally, different databases and classifications may list it under Mimosaceae &amp Papilionaceae.

Distribution and Habitat

• Originally from the Mediterranean basin, Biserrula pelecinus was introduced to Australia in 1993.
• It is well-suited to regions with 300 - 700 mm annual rainfall, particularly those with a predominantly autumn-winter-spring rainfall distribution and relatively little summer rain.

Morphological Characteristics and Growth Habits

• Biserrula pelecinus is a hard-seeded, autumn, winter, and spring growing annual legume.
• Casbah biserrula is a deep-rooted, hard-seeded, drought-tolerant variety.
• The plant performs well on lighter-textured soils.
• One description notes that the stems are annual, weak, erect, branched, 4–6 inches high, and densely grey-pubescent.

Ecological Role

• Biserrula pelecinus is a self-regenerating annual legume from semi-arid oligotrophic pastures.

Interactions with Other Organisms

• The text mentions a symbiotic interaction between Biserrula pelecinus and strains of root-nodule bacteria.
• It can be used in crop-pasture rotation systems and may reduce seed set of annual ryegrass when grazed by sheep.

Quirky Facts

• One WA producer describes biserrula as the "All-Bran" of pastures.
• The name Biserrula comes from the Latin words "bi-" (twice) and "serrula" (a little saw), referring to the toothed crests on the pods.

Further Information

• Contact Meat & Livestock Australia (Ph: 1800 023 100) for information on using biserrula to increase crop and livestock production.
• Ballard Seeds (ballardseeds@westnet.com.au) or Paish and Wilson Seeds Badgingarra WA (Phone/Fax: 08 9652 3031) may provide seeds or related information.
• The Plant List includes scientific plant names for the genus Biserrula.
• Taxonomic Serial Number (TSN): 820445