Bird's Foot Trefoil
Lotus corniculatus
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Pl. 3534 — Lotus corniculatus
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IOverview
Overview
Bird's Foot Trefoil (Lotus corniculatus) is a perennial forb or herb native to Tadzhikistan. Known for its light and airy nature, it thrives in dry to moist conditions with soil that can be light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay). This plant grows up to 0.3 meters tall and is hardy in zones 3-8. It is valued for its edible seedpods, which are suitable for consumption when young and tender. The distinctive feature of this plant lies in its small, yellow pea-like flowers arranged in clusters, resembling a bird's foot, hence the common name. Its adaptability makes it a useful addition to gardens or natural landscapes where it can provide both ornamental value and edible benefits.
Quick answers
What is Bird's Foot Trefoil?
Bird's Foot Trefoil (Lotus corniculatus) is a perennial forb or herb native to Tadzhikistan. Known for its light and airy nature, it thrives in dry to moist conditions with soil that can be light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay). This plant grows up to 0.
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
VCultivation
Cultivation
Bird's Foot Trefoil thrives in light to heavy soils with a pH between 5.5 and 7.5, making it adaptable but preferring well-drained conditions. It requires moderate moisture levels, tolerating both dry and moist environments. The plant is hardy from zones 3 to 8, making it suitable for temperate regions. Bird's Foot Trefoil prefers full sun to partial shade and grows up to 0.3 meters tall. For propagation, seeds can be sown directly in the garden or started indoors. Edible parts include seedpods, which are often used in culinary applications.
Light
7/10
Water
Dry, Moist
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium, Heavy (clay)
Hardiness
3-8
Life cycle
Perennial
Habit
Forb/herb
Mature size
0.3 m tall
Soil pH
5.5–7.5
For first-time growers
How to grow Bird's Foot Trefoil for the first time
8steps
Start with Bird's Foot Trefoil as a simple, low-maintenance perennial for your garden.
- 1
What you'll need
A small packet of seeds or young plants, a trowel, and a watering can.
- 2
Best time to plant
Plant in spring after the last frost or in early fall for best results.
- 3
Soil and container prep
Prepare soil that is well-draining with a pH between 5.5 and 7.5, ensuring it's light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay).
- 4
Sowing or transplanting
Direct sow seeds 0.3 meters apart in the ground or plant young seedlings at the same spacing.
- 5
First two weeks
Water regularly to keep soil moist but not waterlogged, and mulch around plants to retain moisture.
- 6
Ongoing care
Provide light watering during dry spells and remove any weeds that compete for nutrients.
- 7
Harvest or pruning
Prune back the plant in late winter to encourage new growth and maintain a neat appearance.
- 8
Common mistakes
Overwatering, planting too deep, neglecting to mulch, not providing enough light, and failing to prune regularly.
VIEdible & utility
Edible & utility
Edible parts:Seedpod
Edible uses: The seedpods of Bird's Foot Trefoil are edible and can be consumed raw or dried. They are typically used in salads for a light, crunchy addition. Skip the cooking process to preserve their texture and flavor.
Other uses:DyeCover cropNitrogen fixerFragrance
Contextrange · companions · related
VIIDistribution
30 native · 0 introduced
Distribution
30 native · 0 introducedDistribution across3 continents· 30 native
Europe16 regions
native (16)AlbaniaAustriaBelarusBelgiumBulgariaCyprusDenmarkFinlandFranceGermanyGreeceHungaryPortugalRussiaSpainUnited Kingdom
Asia1 region
native (1)Afghanistan
Africa4 regions
native (4)AlgeriaEgyptEritreaEthiopia
Broader regions
native:Czechoslovakia, Gulf States, Føroyar, Tadzhikistan, Baltic States, East Aegean Is., East Himalaya
IXSpecimen gallery
1 image
Specimen gallery
1 imageXI
Explore further
Companion planting
Growing zone
XII
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Back to the cataloguePlant id · 35344087-5ad4-449e-ba77-a49a7bb3f405
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