Bird's-foot clover
Ornithopus perpusillus · Fabaceae
The gardener's calendar
Ideal time to plant bird's-foot clover: set it out when the soil is neither frozen nor waterlogged, and water generously as it establishes.
ID card
- Foliage
- Deciduous, composed of small leaflets
- Flowering
- April to June, small pink to orange flowers
- Adult size
- 10 to 30 cm in height
- Growth
- Fast, annual or biennial
- Hardiness
- Moderate, tolerates temperate climates
- Origin
- Mediterranean and western Europe
- Soil type
- Well-drained, tolerant of poor soils
Care
Light exposure
Place your delicate bird's-foot in full sun or partial shade for optimal flowering. This herbaceous plant enjoys bright and well-ventilated locations. It tolerates slightly shaded exposures well in hot Mediterranean climates.
Watering
Water moderately during the growing season, particularly during dry periods. Allow the soil to dry out slightly between waterings to prevent excessive moisture. Reduce watering in winter if the plant persists.
Soil
Prefer well-drained and light soil, even if poor in nutrients. This legume adapts to chalky or sandy soils. Avoid overly compact or constantly wet soils that would promote rot.
Fertilizer
A light application of balanced fertilizer in spring is generally sufficient. As a member of the Fabaceae family, this plant naturally fixes atmospheric nitrogen and does not require intensive fertilization.
Pruning and deadheading
Pinch young shoots to encourage a more branched and dense habit. Remove faded flowers regularly to extend flowering. At the end of the season, eliminate dried aerial parts.
Diseases and pests
This species is generally little affected by diseases. However, watch for aphids at the beginning of the season, particularly in dense plantings. Excessive moisture can cause fungal problems: ensure good air circulation.
Did you know?
The scientific name Ornithopus literally means "bird's foot" in Greek, a poetic reference to the jointed and segmented pods that resemble bird talons. This small annual plant, long considered a ruderal herb or forage crop, has become valuable to beekeepers and ecological gardeners because it attracts pollinators and naturally enriches soils.
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.
Add this plant to my garden →Plants from the same family
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Tips generated and checked by Viridia — adapt them to your local climate.