Bird's-Foot Trefoil

Bird's-foot trefoil (Lotus corniculatus) is a low-growing perennial legume in the pea family, known for its bright yellow flowers and distinctive seed pods that resemble a bird's foot. It fixes atmospheric nitrogen through root nodules, enriching the soil wherever it grows. Hardy and drought-tolerant, it thrives in open, sunny locations with well-drained soils. It is widely used as a green manure, meadow plant, and wildlife-friendly ground cover.

Growing

Sow seeds directly into prepared ground once soil temperature reaches 8 °C. Scarify or soak seeds overnight to improve germination. Sow at a depth of 0.5 cm and firm the soil gently. Space plants 20 cm apart for ground cover or meadow use. No indoor start is needed; direct sowing into a weed-free seedbed gives the best establishment.

Care

Water lightly after sowing until seedlings are established; once rooted, bird's-foot trefoil tolerates dry spells well and generally requires no supplemental irrigation. No feeding is necessary — as a legume it fixes its own nitrogen. Mow or cut back after the main flowering flush to encourage fresh growth and prolong the stand. Avoid waterlogged soils, which promote root rot.

Harvest

For green manure, cut or dig in the entire plant before it sets seed, once the stand is lush and flowering. For seed saving, collect pods once they turn brown and begin to twist open, but before they shatter. For meadow and wildlife purposes, allow the full flowering-to-seeding cycle to complete before any cutting.

In the kitchen

Bird's-foot trefoil is not a culinary plant; it contains low levels of cyanogenic glycosides and is not recommended for human consumption. Its value is as a soil-improving green manure, a nectar source for pollinators, and a component of wildflower and meadow mixes.

Storing

Store harvested seeds in a cool, dry, dark location in paper envelopes or sealed glass jars. Viability is maintained for 2–3 years under these conditions. Green manure biomass should be incorporated into the soil immediately after cutting.