Plant Details

Lotus corniculatus

Bird's Foot Trefoil

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Explore the size, hardiness, soil, light, edible uses and harvest period of Lotus corniculatus.

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General Information

Scientific name: Lotus corniculatus
Also known as: Bird's Foot Trefoil

Plant Properties

Layer: Herbaceous, Ground cover
Size: Small
Height: 0.30 m
Width: 0.50 m
Growth Rate: Moderate
Leaf: Deciduous

Growth conditions

USDA Hardiness: 3-8
Soil Moisture:
Moist, Well-drained
Soil:
Sand (light) Loam (medium) Clay (heavy)
pH:
Acidic Neutral Alkaline
Light:
Full sun

Usage properties

Edible part:
Seed pod
Edibility:
(1)
Medicinal:
(1)
Features:
Nitrogen fixer, Bee forage, Fragrant, Dye

Description

The young pods are 'nibbled'. Caution is advised, see the comments on toxicity. All parts of the plant are toxic and contain cyanogenic glycosides (hydrogen cyanide). In small amounts, hydrogen cyanide has been shown to stimulate respiration and improve digestion. It is also claimed to have benefits in cancer treatment. However, in large amounts, it can cause respiratory failure and even death. This species is polymorphic for cyanogenic glycosides. The flowers of some forms of the plant contain traces of prussic acid, making the plants slightly toxic during flowering. They are completely harmless when dried.

Harvest Data

Start Harvest: 15/06
End of Harvest: 15/09