Bird's-foot trefoil
Lotus corniculatus · Fabaceae
The gardener's calendar
Ideal time to plant bird's-foot trefoil: set it out when the soil is neither frozen nor waterlogged, and water generously as it establishes.
ID card
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Flowering
- May to September
- Adult size
- 20 to 40 cm tall, spreading habit
- Growth
- Fast
- Hardiness
- Very hardy (down to -15°C)
- Origin
- Western and Mediterranean Europe
- Soil type
- Well-drained, poor to average
Care
Light exposure
Place your bird's-foot trefoil in full sun or partial shade for optimal flowering. At least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily encourages good growth and abundant flowers. In very hot regions, light afternoon shade can help.
Watering
Water regularly during establishment and flowering, without creating waterlogging. Once well-rooted, bird's-foot trefoil tolerates drought and needs only occasional watering. Reduce watering in winter.
Soil
Opt for well-drained soil, neutral to slightly acidic. Bird's-foot trefoil adapts to poor and rocky soils, making it an excellent choice for difficult areas. Improve overly compact soil by adding sand or gravel.
Pruning and maintenance
Prune lightly after flowering to maintain a compact shape and encourage branching. Pinch young shoots to promote bushiness. In late winter, remove dead or frost-damaged wood.
Fertilizing
Bird's-foot trefoil needs little fertilizer, especially if grown in poor soil. Light application of balanced fertilizer in spring is sufficient. Avoid excess nitrogen which would stimulate foliage at the expense of flowering.
Diseases and pests
This plant is generally very robust and rarely susceptible to disease. Watch for stagnant moisture that could promote root rot. Aphids may occasionally infest young shoots; a water spray or mild treatment is usually sufficient.
Did you know?
Bird's-foot trefoil was once called 'horned clover' due to its curved seed pods shaped like horns. This first-rate nectar plant is highly appreciated by bees and butterflies, and it naturally enriches the soil by fixing atmospheric nitrogen through its symbiotic bacteria, making it valuable for ecological restoration of degraded land.
Where to buy it
Plant in spring or early autumn, avoiding spells of intense heat. Pick a plant with healthy foliage and roots that are not exposed. Best time: March, April, May, September.
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Tips generated and checked by Viridia — adapt them to your local climate.