Birdsfoot trefoil

From WikiMD's Wellness Encyclopedia

Birdsfoot Trefoil (Lotus corniculatus) is a flowering plant in the legume family Fabaceae, native to grasslands in temperate regions of the Old World. It is also known by the common names Common Bird's-foot Trefoil, Eggs and Bacon, Bird's-foot Deervetch, and Butter and Eggs.

Description[edit | edit source]

Birdsfoot Trefoil is a perennial herbaceous plant, similar in appearance to some clover species. Its name is derived from the appearance of the seed pods on their stalk. These pods appear to look like a bird's foot or claw. The flowers develop into small pea-like pods or legumes. The leaves are trifoliate, with an additional pair of leaves at the base of the leaf stalk, making it appear as though it has five leaves.

Habitat and Distribution[edit | edit source]

Birdsfoot Trefoil is native to grasslands in temperate regions of the Old World, including Europe, Asia, and North Africa. It has been introduced to other parts of the world, including North America, where it is often used as a forage crop for livestock. It is tolerant of a wide range of soil conditions, and can grow in both full sun and partial shade.

Uses[edit | edit source]

Birdsfoot Trefoil is used as a forage crop for livestock, as it is high in protein and is palatable to livestock. It is also used in wildlife food plots, as it is a preferred food source for many species of wildlife. In addition, it is used in landscaping and garden design, as it is a low-maintenance plant that provides bright yellow flowers.

Cultivation[edit | edit source]

Birdsfoot Trefoil is a hardy plant that can tolerate a wide range of soil conditions. It prefers well-drained soil, but can tolerate poor soil conditions. It is drought-tolerant and can grow in both full sun and partial shade. It is propagated by seed, which can be sown in either spring or fall.

Ecological Role[edit | edit source]

Birdsfoot Trefoil plays an important role in its ecosystem. It is a host plant for several species of butterflies and moths, and its flowers provide nectar for bees and other pollinators. It also helps to improve soil quality by fixing nitrogen in the soil.

See Also[edit | edit source]


This plant related article is a stub. You can help WikiMD by expanding it.

WikiMD
Navigation: Wellness - Encyclopedia - Health topics - Disease Index‏‎ - Drugs - World Directory - Gray's Anatomy - Keto diet - Recipes

Search WikiMD

Ad.Tired of being Overweight? Try W8MD's physician weight loss program.
Semaglutide (Ozempic / Wegovy and Tirzepatide (Mounjaro / Zepbound) available.
Advertise on WikiMD

WikiMD's Wellness Encyclopedia

Let Food Be Thy Medicine
Medicine Thy Food - Hippocrates

Medical Disclaimer: WikiMD is not a substitute for professional medical advice. The information on WikiMD is provided as an information resource only, may be incorrect, outdated or misleading, and is not to be used or relied on for any diagnostic or treatment purposes. Please consult your health care provider before making any healthcare decisions or for guidance about a specific medical condition. WikiMD expressly disclaims responsibility, and shall have no liability, for any damages, loss, injury, or liability whatsoever suffered as a result of your reliance on the information contained in this site. By visiting this site you agree to the foregoing terms and conditions, which may from time to time be changed or supplemented by WikiMD. If you do not agree to the foregoing terms and conditions, you should not enter or use this site. See full disclaimer.
Credits:Most images are courtesy of Wikimedia commons, and templates Wikipedia, licensed under CC BY SA or similar.

Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD