Five-fingered trefoil
dorycnium pentaphyllum
Also known as: ["Five-fingered trefoil","Spanish trefoil"]
Overview
A low-growing, deciduous legume with trifoliate leaves and small yellow flowers, native to Mediterranean regions.
Benefits & Perks
["drought tolerant","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Fabales |
| Family: | Fabaceae |
| Genus: | Dorycnium |
| Botanical Name: | Dorycnium pentaphyllum |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Herbs & Weeds
- Suitable Location: rock gardens, sunny borders, or containers in temperate climates
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"–10–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"5–9"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining; avoid heavy, water-retentive soils.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, sandy loam with some organic matter; tolerates poor soils.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: low
- Toughness Level: high
- Pruning Frequency: Annually in late winter or early spring; light pruning can be done as needed.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of the plant if overgrown.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun to partial shade; 6–8 hours of direct sunlight per day, with some afternoon shade in hot climates.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense sunlight; protect from harsh afternoon sun; adjust placement based on seasonal light changes.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easymoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant for even light exposure; use shade cloth in extreme heat; monitor for sunburn.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure good drainage; avoid waterlogging.
Soil
well-drained, sandy or loamy soil
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral, pH 6.0–7.0.
Ensure soil dries between waterings; avoid compacted soil; amend with organic matter if needed.
Temperature
Prefers mild temperatures, 60–75°F (15–24°C); tolerates light frosts but thrives in moderate climates.
Protect from frost; provide shade in summer; maintain moderate temperatures.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer
Fertilize lightly; avoid over-fertilization; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings; division of clumps.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take 4–6 inch cuttings.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone (optional).
- Plant in moist medium.
- Keep warm and humid.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm, humid environment with indirect light; maintain consistent moisture.
Medium
Well-draining potting mix, such as a mix of peat, perlite, and sand.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is optional but can improve success rates.
Timeline
Roots typically form in 4–6 weeks; new growth may appear in 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, well-draining soil mix.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain humidity with a plastic cover; avoid direct sunlight.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back tips for bushier growth; cut back stems to encourage new shoots.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushiness, and remove dead or weak growth.
Tools
Pruning shears, gloves, clean cutting tools.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune dead or damaged stems; shape the plant; clean up debris.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before the active growing season begins.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 1–2 inches in diameter; ensure good drainage.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if necessary; place in a slightly larger pot with fresh, well-draining soil; water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when the plant becomes root-bound; beneficial for growth and health.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot size; prepare fresh soil mix; handle roots carefully; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone; allow excess water to drain away; water in the morning to reduce evaporation.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply when the top inch of soil is dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or sand to improve drainage; incorporate compost for fertility.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, yellowing leaves, or stunted growth in extreme heat or cold; leaf drop in prolonged cold.
Cold Stress
Slows growth; may cause leaf drop; vulnerable to frost damage in hard freezes.
Solution: Provide frost protection in winter; move to a sheltered location; mulch around the base.
Hot Stress
Leaf scorch, wilting, or drooping; reduced flowering in excessive heat.
Solution: Provide afternoon shade; increase humidity; water deeply but avoid waterlogging.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer; fertilize during active growth; stop in winter.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength; fertilize monthly during growing season (spring to early fall); avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicDorycnium pentaphyllum is not considered toxic to cats. The plant lacks known toxic compounds that would adversely affect feline health.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Non-toxicDorycnium pentaphyllum is not known to be toxic to dogs. The plant does not contain compounds that are harmful to canine physiology.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Non-toxicDorycnium pentaphyllum is generally considered non-toxic to humans. It does not produce significant toxic compounds that would cause adverse physiological effects upon ingestion.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Dorycnium pentaphyllum suitable for a beginner gardener?
A: Yes, it is easy to care for and requires minimal maintenance.
Q: Does this plant attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it attracts bees and butterflies due to its flowers.
Q: Is it toxic to pets?
A: No, it is non-toxic to dogs and cats.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Fabaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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