Forage yield and density are common selection criteria for assessing the suitability of lucerne varieties in high rainfall conditions and under irrigation. However, selection criteria for assessing the suitability of lucerne varieties is not well defined in dryland farming systems. This study combines forage yield, plant density, root biomass and proline content in the plant leaf to compare the suitability of 1 local and 8 introduced lucerne (Medicago sativa) varieties over 3 years in the dry environment of west China. The results of this study indicated that the above measurements significantly differed among the 9 lucerne varieties, and also showed that suitability of lucerne varieties varied based on different indicators. Ameristand 201 and Algonquin performed well in terms of forage yield. Ameristand 201 and Sandili were well-adapted varieties based on root biomass and Ameristand 201 was the first selected variety in terms of drought resistance. Combining initial establishment density and its decline over years indicated that Sandili maintained good persistence. A cluster analysis of 9 lucerne varieties indicated that Ameristand 201 was very suitable for sowing in the dry Loess Plateau, a high water-erosion region in west China.