Slender Bird's-foot Trefoil (Lotus ornithopodioides)

Slender Bird's-foot Trefoil

Lotus ornithopodioides

It forms a low, sunny mat of yellow pea-like blooms, a quiet pollinator haven. Low-growing herbaceous perennial; common name: slender bird's-foot trefoil.

Full sun
1–2/week
Beginner
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Plant Needs

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Sunlight Full sun to partial shade; thrives in sunny, open positions and tolerates light shade in hot climates
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Watering Drought-tolerant; water only when the top 2–3 cm of soil is completely dry to avoid root rot
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Temperature Hardy to mild frosts; performs best in temperate to Mediterranean climate conditions
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Characteristics

  • Leaf: Small pinnately compound leaves with 5 obovate, hair-covered leaflets
  • Flower: Bright yellow pea-like flowers in clusters of 1–3 blooms
  • Stem: Slender, trailing or ascending stems with fine, soft hairs
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Care Guide

Watering

Water occasionally during prolonged dry spells; avoid overwatering

Fertilization

Light feed with diluted organic compost tea once monthly. Avoid high-nitrogen fertilizers to prevent excessive foliage growth over flowering

Banana peel compost tea:Compost banana peels for 2–3 weeks, dilute 1:20 with water for root drench; avoid raw peels to prevent pest attraction
Pruning
  • Trim back spent flower heads to encourage extended blooming
  • Thin overcrowded patches to improve airflow and reduce disease risk
  • Cut back dead foliage in late winter to promote new spring growth
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Toxicity

Warning: this plant may be toxic.

Pets & Humans

Pets: ASPCA: Non-toxic to cats

Humans: No known toxic effects for humans

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Garden Uses & Culture

Culture: N/A

Usage: Ground cover for rock gardens; nectar source for bees and butterflies