Serratas
Pink Serradella // Ornithopus sativus
fact sheet
Serratas is adapted to deep, well drained, sandy soils with low pH and low fertility levels. It is particularly tolerant of low phosphorus levels.
Strengths:
  • High nitrogen fixation
  • High quality feed
  • Ideal for hay and silage
  • Soft seeded - ideal for cropping areas
  • Superior legume for acid/sandy soils
  • Deep taproot
  • Low oestrogen levels
  • Can be used as green manure
  • Excellent cold tolerance
Pasture type and use:

Serratas is a high protein, palatable feed for stock, green feed and as conserved feed.

It is non-bloating and contains tannins which protect protein in the rumen increasing protein absorption and digestive efficiency in ruminants.

It tolerates moderate to severe aluminium and manganese levels, both of which reduce the productivity and persistence of other legumes such as white and sub clover and lucerne.

Rainfall:

Best suited to regions that experience dry, hot Summers with an annual rainfall of 375mm+.

It is Winter growing in Mediterranean climates, Summer growing in temperate climates and is suitable under irrigation in sub-tropical areas.

It tolerates moderate to severe aluminium and manganese levels, both of which reduce the productivity and persistence of other legumes such as white and sub clover and lucerne.

Sowing:

Seed should not be sown deeper than 10mm. It can be sown into a conventional seedbed or direct drilled.

Seed can be broadcast, although population density may be lower than that achieved by other methods.

Sowing rates:

5-10kg/Ha alone.

2-5kg/Ha in a mix.

Serratas graph
Jane Dent in Serratas.