Also known as Orange Birdsfoot · Slender Seradella · Slender Serradella
Orange Bird's-foot (Ornithopus pinnatus) is a charming annual legume with delicate, orange-pink flowers resembling bird's feet, native to the Mediterranean.
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Full Sun
100% intensity
Prefers bright, direct sunlight for at least 6 hours a day to promote abundant flowering and healthy growth.
Moderate
50% intensity
Allow soil to dry slightly between waterings. Ensure good drainage to prevent root rot.
Sandy, Loamy, Well-drained
50% intensity
Moderate
50% intensity
Thrives in average room temperatures between 18-24°C. Protect from frost; it is not cold-hardy and may require winter protection in cooler climates.
Low
25% intensity
Fertilize sparingly during the growing season with a balanced liquid fertilizer. Avoid over-fertilizing, which can burn roots.
Safety information from plant toxicity data
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Toxic for humans | No 0/5 intensity |
| Toxic for pets | No 0/5 intensity |
None
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Water moderately, allowing the top inch of soil to dry out between waterings. Avoid overwatering, which can lead to root rot. Ensure good drainage.
Reduce watering significantly during the cooler, dormant winter months to prevent waterlogged conditions and potential fungal issues.
Prune lightly after flowering to maintain shape and encourage bushier growth. Remove any dead, damaged, or leggy stems to improve air circulation and appearance.
Pinching back young plants can promote a more compact and fuller habit. Avoid heavy pruning as it can stress the plant.
Propagate primarily through seeds sown in spring or early autumn. Seeds germinate best with consistent moisture and warmth. They can also be propagated from cuttings taken in late spring or early summer.
Ensure cuttings are placed in well-draining soil and kept moist.
Repot young plants annually in spring as they become root-bound. Mature plants can be repotted every 2-3 years or when drainage becomes poor.
Use a well-draining potting mix, such as a blend of peat moss, perlite, and compost. Ensure the new pot has drainage holes.
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Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of Orange Bird's-Foot (Ornithopus pinnatus)
Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Division | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Fabales |
| Family | Fabaceae |
| Genus | Ornithopus |
| Species | Ornithopus pinnatus |
Similar in genus Ornithopus
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data
