Bird's-foot (Ornithopus pinnatus)

Bird's-foot

Ornithopus pinnatus

Delicate pinnate leaves carry tiny pea-like blooms, a soft groundcover for sunny slopes. Low-growing herbaceous perennial; common name: Bird's-foot.

Full sun
1–2/week
Beginner
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Plant Needs

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Sunlight Full sun to partial shade; tolerates dry, sunny exposures and light afternoon shade in hot climates
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Watering Allow topsoil to dry completely between waterings; drought-tolerant once established
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Temperature Hardy to mild frost; prefers temperate to warm sunny conditions
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Characteristics

  • Leaf: Pinnately compound, small oval leaflets arranged in pairs along slender petioles
  • Flower: Tiny pale pink to white pea-like blooms, clustered at stem tips
  • Stem: Slender, trailing or ascending stems that root at nodes to form dense mats
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Care Guide

Watering

Water regularly during active growth; avoid overwatering to prevent root rot

Fertilization

Diluted feed once every 6 weeks. Use low-nitrogen, phosphorus-rich diluted feed to support flowering and root development

Eggshell powder topdressing:Crush dried eggshells into fine powder; sprinkle lightly over soil surface to boost calcium levels without attracting pests or causing odor
Pruning
  • Trim back spent flower stems to encourage reblooming and prevent excessive self-seeding
  • Thin overcrowded mats in early spring to improve airflow and reduce disease risk
  • Remove dead or yellowing foliage in late winter to promote new spring growth
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Toxicity

Warning: this plant may be toxic.

Pets & Humans

Pets: ASPCA: No known toxic effects on cats

Humans: No known toxic effects on humans

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Garden Uses & Culture

Culture: N/A

Usage: Groundcover for rock gardens, slope stabilization, and pollinator support for bees and butterflies