Bright Yellow Flowers
Produces clusters of yellow, pea-shaped flowers that sometimes display reddish-orange markings.
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Bird's Foot Trefoil, scientifically known as Lotus corniculatus, is a perennial flowering legume recognized for its bright yellow, pea-shaped flowers and distinctive clover-like foliage. Its clusters of flowers sometimes feature subtle reddish markings, adding natural color to wildflower meadows, open gardens, and landscape plantings. The plant develops spreading stems and unusual seed pods that resemble a bird's foot. It is also valued for attracting pollinators and its ability to grow in different soil conditions. Bird's Foot Trefoil is suitable for selected wildflower and naturalized planting projects where its spread can be managed.
Produces clusters of yellow, pea-shaped flowers that sometimes display reddish-orange markings.
Develops narrow seed pods arranged outward from the flower stalk, resembling the shape of a bird's foot.
Forms branching stems that can grow upright or spread along the ground, creating dense patches over time.
Its flowers attract bees and other visiting insects, making it useful in suitable wildlife garden settings.
| Scientific Name | Lotus corniculatus |
| Common Name | Bird's Foot Trefoil; Birdsfoot Trefoil; Birdfoot Deervetch |
| Plant Family | Fabaceae |
| Seed Type | Wildflower Seeds; Perennial Flowering Legume |
| Plant Type | Herbaceous Perennial |
| Growth Habit | Spreading, branching, low-growing to upright |
| Flower Color | Bright Yellow, Sometimes Red-Tinged |
| Flower Shape | Pea-Shaped Flowers in Clusters |
| USDA Hardiness Zones | Generally Zones 4–8; local adaptation varies |
| Planting Season | Spring or Early Fall |
| Growing Season | Spring through Summer |
| Flowering Season | Late Spring through Summer, depending on climate |
| Sowing Season | Spring and Fall |
| Germination Time | Varies with seed condition, temperature, and moisture |
| Germination Temperature | Approximately 15–25°C (59–77°F) |
| Seed Preparation | Some seed lots may benefit from scarification |
| Sowing Depth | Approximately 0.5–1 cm (1/4–1/2 inch) |
| Sunlight Requirements | Full Sun |
| Soil Requirements | Well-prepared soil with suitable drainage; tolerates a range of soil conditions |
| Watering | Keep soil moist during establishment; avoid prolonged drought |
| Mature Plant Height | Approximately 30–90 cm (12–36 inches), depending on growing conditions |
| Plant Spacing | Approximately 20–30 cm for individual garden planting |
| Pollinator Attraction | Bees and other flower-visiting insects |
Bird's Foot Trefoil adds cheerful yellow flowers, distinctive foliage, and interesting seed pods to suitable wildflower gardens and naturalized landscapes. Its perennial growth habit and pollinator-attracting flowers make it an interesting addition to managed meadow planting projects. Provide full sunlight, suitable soil preparation, and consistent moisture during establishment to support healthy plant development. Check local planting guidance before introducing this species, as it can spread beyond intended planting areas in some regions.
Find answers to common questions about Bird's Foot Trefoil seed germination, flowering, and wildflower garden planting.
Sow Bird's Foot Trefoil seeds in a prepared, firm seedbed at approximately 0.5–1 cm deep. Keep the soil moist while the seeds establish. Some seeds have hard seed coats that can slow water absorption, so scarification may improve germination in certain seed lots. Follow the supplier's instructions for seed preparation and planting.
Bird's Foot Trefoil generally blooms from late spring through summer, with flowering periods varying by climate and growing conditions. Its flowers are bright yellow and have a characteristic pea-like shape. Some flowers also display reddish or orange markings. The flowers develop into narrow seed pods that resemble a bird's foot when arranged on the stalk.
Bird's Foot Trefoil can be included in selected managed wildflower meadow and conservation planting projects. Its yellow flowers provide a source of floral interest for visiting bees, while its perennial growth supports ground cover. However, Lotus corniculatus is introduced in many parts of the United States and can spread into natural habitats, where it may compete with native plants. Check local invasive-species guidance before planting.