Lotus corniculatus
Birdsfoot Trefoil
FABACEAE
This wild plant is a member of a legume genus of 150 species growing in
temperate regions worldwide. They are grown for their pea-like flowers
which come in a variety of colors. They should not be confused with the
aquatic plants commonly known as lotus.
The birdsfoot trefoil is a low plant, often with a reclining stem, with clover-like leaves and yellow pea-like flowers (about 1/2 inch long) in terminal clusters from June through September. There are five leaves, the upper three separated from the lower two by a short stalk. The pod arrangement suggests a birds foot. The height of the plant is only six to 24 inches.
This plant was introduced from Europe and has a range from Newfoundland and New England south to North Carolina, and northwest through Ohio to Minnesota. It is found along roadsides, meadows, and fields.
Zones 5 - 8.