Narrow-leaved Bird's-foot Trefoil
lotus glaber
Also known as: ["Narrow-leaved Bird's-foot Trefoil","Narrow-leaved Lotus"]
Overview
A perennial herbaceous plant native to Europe and parts of Asia, known for its yellow flowers and trifoliate leaves.
Benefits & Perks
["wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","drought tolerant","aesthetic foliage"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Fabales |
| Family: | Fabaceae |
| Genus: | Lotus |
| Botanical Name: | Lotus glaber |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Herbs & Weeds
- Suitable Location: Wetland edges, shallow water gardens, or containers with water gardens
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"10–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"8–10"}
- Misting: Rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Well-draining but moisture-retentive.
- Soil Type: Rich, loamy soil with good organic matter content.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically after flowering or in early spring.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate, focusing on selective removal of unwanted stems.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours/day) in spring and summer; partial shade during peak summer heat to prevent scorching.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Gradually acclimate plants to full sun to avoid leaf burn. Provide shade during extreme heat. Indoor plants should be placed near south-facing windows with filtered light.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
Full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant weekly for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter intense light; avoid direct midday sun in summer.
Watering
Consistently moist, never allowing soil to dry out
Water thoroughly until runoff, allow soil to dry slightly between waterings, and avoid waterlogging.
Soil
Rich, loamy, slightly acidic soil with good moisture retention
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure soil is not compacted; use mulch to retain moisture; test pH annually.
Temperature
Prefers 65–85°F (18–29°C). Tolerates mild frosts but thrives in warm, temperate conditions.
Protect from frost; avoid sudden temperature fluctuations; maintain consistent warmth during active growth.
Fertilizing
Every 4–6 weeks during active growing season with balanced liquid fertilizer
Fertilize after watering to prevent root burn; switch to a low-nitrogen formula for flowering plants; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or division of rhizomes.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a 4–6 inch cutting.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Maintain humidity.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
High humidity (70–80%), warm temperatures (70–75°F), and indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining potting mix with perlite or sand.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is optional but recommended for faster rooting.
Timeline
Roots develop in 3–6 weeks; new growth appears in 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, humidity dome.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain consistent moisture; provide bottom heat for faster rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinching back tips for bushier growth; cutting back leggy stems to encourage branching.
Pruning Plan
Remove dead or damaged growth to encourage healthy development and improve air circulation.
Tools
Pruning shears, sterilized knife.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune dead/damaged growth; shape plant; clean up debris.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before active growth begins.
Pot Size
Choose a pot 1–2 inches larger in diameter than the current one.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if necessary; place in a new pot with fresh soil; water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots outgrow the container to refresh soil and provide space.
Checklist
Select appropriate pot; prepare new soil mix; handle roots carefully; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply; ensure proper drainage; adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone without wetting foliage. Water early in the morning to minimize evaporation and allow leaves to dry.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once a week during active growth, reducing frequency to every 2–3 weeks in winter. Adjust based on rainfall and soil moisture retention.
Soil Improvement
Add compost or well-rotted manure to enhance fertility and structure; incorporate perlite for drainage.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Yellowing leaves, stunted growth, bud drop, or leaf necrosis in extreme heat or cold.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, may cause leaf discoloration, and can lead to root damage if temperatures drop below 20°F (-6°C).
Solution: Move potted plants indoors or to a sheltered location. Apply a thick layer of mulch to protect roots in-ground.
Hot Stress
Wilting, leaf scorch, reduced flowering, and increased susceptibility to pests due to excessive heat.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat, increase watering frequency, and use mulch to retain soil moisture.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer; apply during growing season; avoid over-fertilization; flush soil periodically.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer. Avoid fertilizing in fall and winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicLotus glaber is not known to be toxic to cats. There are no reported adverse effects from ingestion.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Non-toxicLotus glaber is not known to be toxic to dogs. There are no reported adverse effects from ingestion.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Non-toxicLotus glaber is not known to exhibit toxic effects in humans. It is generally considered safe for consumption.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Lotus glaber edible?
A: Lotus glaber is not commonly consumed by humans, and its edibility is not well-documented.
Q: Does Lotus glaber attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and other pollinators due to its nectar-rich flowers.
Q: How does Lotus glaber grow?
A: It prefers well-drained soils and full sun, and it can tolerate some drought conditions.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Fabaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | Full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | Consistently moist, never allo |
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