plant

Bird's-foot trefoil

Lotus corniculatus

Updated 4 Aug 2026 · AI-parsed entry

Bird's-foot trefoil (Lotus corniculatus) — a plant, for Full sun, Medium water.

What it needs & gives back

↓ Needs

Lightfull sun to partial shade
Watermoderate

↑ Gives back

Mulch_biomassmedium
Nectarabundant
Pollenabundant

Through the year

Through the year

JFMAMJJASOND
emergenceEmergence in early spring after the last frost and when soil temperatures consistently reach 5°C.
floweringFlowering begins approximately 60 days after emergence, triggered by lengthening photoperiods.
fruitingFruiting follows flowering, typically starting 30 days after the onset of flowering.
senescenceSenescence occurs with the first autumn frost and shortening day lengths.

Soil interactions

Drainagewell-drained to moist
Nitrogen fixingYes
MycorrhizalYes
Accumulatesnitrogen
Soil textureloam, clay, sand
Organic matterMedium
Compaction toleranceHigh

Propagation

Methodsseed, division
Difficulty2 / 5
Establishes in~1 yr
Stratificationcold stratification recommended for improved germination
Self-seedingModerate
Divisionspring

Wildlife & pests

Attractsbees, butterflies, beneficial insects