Also known as Cretan Bird's-Foot Trefoil · Cretan Bird's-Foot-Trefoil · Cretan Trefoil
Creta Trefoil (Lotus creticus) is a low-growing, woody perennial with silvery foliage and bright yellow, pea-like flowers, ideal for rock gardens and coastal planting.
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Full sun
100% intensity
Prefers at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight daily for optimal flowering and growth.
Moderate during growth, very low in dormancy
50% intensity
Allow soil to dry out between waterings; prevent waterlogging.
Well-drained
50% intensity
Warm to moderate
50% intensity
Thrives in temperatures between 15-25°C. Can tolerate brief periods of mild frost but prefers protection in colder climates.
Low
25% intensity
Fertilize sparingly only during the growing season; over-fertilizing can reduce flowering.
Safety information from plant toxicity data
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Toxic for humans | No 0/5 intensity |
| Toxic for pets | No 0/5 intensity |
| Edible | No |
Non-toxic
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Allow the soil to dry out between waterings. In summer, water moderately when the top few centimeters of soil are dry.
Reduce watering significantly in winter, allowing the soil to remain dry for extended periods to prevent root rot. Ensure good drainage to avoid waterlogged conditions.
Prune lightly after flowering to maintain a compact shape and encourage bushier growth. Remove any dead or damaged stems. Hard pruning is generally not recommended and should be done with caution.
Pruning in late winter or early spring can also stimulate new growth.
Propagate from seeds sown in spring or semi-hardwood cuttings taken in summer. Seeds may require scarification or soaking to improve germination.
Cuttings should be rooted in a well-draining potting mix in a warm environment with good humidity.
Repot young plants annually in spring, while mature plants can be repotted every 2-3 years. Use a well-draining potting mix, preferably sandy and slightly gritty.
Choose a pot that is only slightly larger than the current one to avoid overwatering. Ensure the pot has adequate drainage holes.
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Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of Creta Trefoil (Lotus creticus)
Where Creta Trefoil (Lotus creticus) is found
Density
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Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Division | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Fabales |
| Family | Fabaceae |
| Genus | Lotus |
| Species | Lotus creticus |
Similar in genus Lotus
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data
