Also known as Bird's-Foot Deer-Vetch · Bird's-Foot-Trefoil · Birdfoot Deervetch
Bird's-foot trefoil (Lotus corniculatus) is a low-growing perennial herb with bright yellow, pea-like flowers and distinctive seed pods resembling a bird's foot. It's a v
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Full Sun
75% intensity
Prefers at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight daily for best flowering.
Moderate
50% intensity
Allow soil to dry slightly between waterings. Reduce in winter.
Well-drained, Sandy, Loamy, Clay
50% intensity
Moderate
50% intensity
Hardy in temperate climates. Tolerates heat and cold once established.
Low
25% intensity
Does not require heavy feeding; benefits from light feeding in spring if soil is poor.
Safety information from plant toxicity data
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Toxic for humans | No 0/5 intensity |
| Toxic for pets | No 0/5 intensity |
| Edible | No |
Contains cyanogenic glycosides which can release hydrogen cyanide, particularly when consumed in very large quantities by livestock, potentially causing bloat. Generally considered safe for humans and common pets in typical exposure.
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Water regularly during the growing season, especially during dry spells, but allow the soil to dry out slightly between waterings. Reduce watering in winter.
Bird's-foot trefoil prefers well-drained soil and is somewhat drought-tolerant once established, avoiding waterlogged conditions.
Pruning is usually minimal. Deadheading spent flower clusters can encourage further blooming.
If the plant becomes leggy or overgrown, light pruning in late spring or early summer can help maintain its shape and promote bushier growth. Remove any dead or damaged stems.
Bird's-foot trefoil can be propagated by seeds sown in spring or autumn, or by division of established clumps in early spring. Seedlings may take a season or two to establish well.
Cuttings can also be taken in early summer for propagation.
This plant is not typically grown in pots and is best suited for garden beds. If grown in containers, repotting is rarely needed.
If it becomes root-bound, repot in early spring into a slightly larger container with fresh, well-draining potting mix.
Identify plants like this with ePlant AI
Snap a photo to get care tips and match similar species on the go.
Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of Bird's-Foot Trefoil (Lotus corniculatus)
Where Bird's-Foot Trefoil (Lotus corniculatus) is found
Density
Tap map to explore
Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Division | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Fabales |
| Family | Fabaceae |
| Genus | Lotus |
| Species | Lotus corniculatus |
Similar in genus Lotus
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data
