Slender Bird's-foot Trefoil
ornithopus perpusillus
Also known as: ["Slender Ornithopus","Little Bird's-foot"]
Overview
A small, low-growing legume with yellow flowers and trifoliate leaves, native to Europe and parts of Asia.
Benefits & Perks
["wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","drought tolerant","low maintenance"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Fabales |
| Family: | Fabaceae |
| Genus: | Ornithopus |
| Botanical Name: | Ornithopus perpusillus |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: rock gardens, borders, or open meadows
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"7–10"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, sandy loam with some organic matter.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: very low
- Toughness Level: high
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically after flowering or in early spring.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; avoid heavy pruning unless necessary.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours/day); tolerates partial shade in hot climates.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually if moving from shade to sun; protect from intense midday sun in hot regions; ensure good air circulation to prevent fungal issues.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easymoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant for even growth; use sheer curtains in intense sun; avoid direct sun in winter if indoors.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water deeply but infrequently; ensure good drainage; avoid overwatering.
Soil
well-drained, sandy or loamy soil
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Use a mix of potting soil and sand; avoid heavy clay soils; ensure pots have drainage holes.
Temperature
Prefers cool to moderate temperatures (50–75°F or 10–24°C); tolerates mild frosts.
Protect from frost; avoid sudden temperature swings; ensure good air circulation in heat.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during growing season, none in winter
Fertilize only during active growth; use a low-nitrogen formula; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup.
Propagation
Methods
Seed propagation is most common; stem cuttings can also be used.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Prepare medium.
- Sow seeds or take cuttings.
- Maintain moisture.
- Provide warmth and light.
- Transplant once rooted.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm (65–75°F or 18–24°C), humid, and bright indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining seed starting mix or cactus mix with perlite.
Hormone
Not typically required for seeds; rooting hormone can aid stem cuttings.
Timeline
Seeds may germinate in 2–4 weeks; stem cuttings root in 3–6 weeks.
Tools Needed
Seed trays, pots, rooting hormone (optional), misting spray bottle, heat mat (optional).
Quick Tips
Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged; provide bottom heat for faster germination; thin seedlings as needed.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back tips to encourage bushiness; trim leggy stems to improve shape.
Pruning Plan
Minimal pruning needed; focus on removing dead or damaged growth to maintain health and shape.
Tools
Clean, sharp scissors or pruning shears.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune dead/damaged growth; shape as desired; clean up debris.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before active growth begins.
Pot Size
Move to a pot one size larger (1–2 inches in diameter increase).
Method
Gently remove plant; trim any dead roots; repot in fresh, well-draining soil; ensure good drainage.
Suggestions
Repot only when root-bound or every 2–3 years; prefers slightly crowded roots.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot; prepare fresh soil; handle roots carefully; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; 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 without saturating the soil. Water early in the day to minimize evaporation and allow foliage to dry.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water lightly and infrequently, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings. Reduce watering in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure good aeration.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, yellowing leaves, stunted growth, or leaf drop in extreme heat or cold.
Cold Stress
Slows growth; may cause leaf discoloration or dieback in prolonged freezing conditions.
Solution: Provide frost protection in winter; avoid overwatering in cold; move indoors if temperatures drop below 20°F (-6°C).
Hot Stress
Leaves may scorch, wilt, or drop; growth may slow in excessive heat.
Solution: Provide afternoon shade; increase humidity; water deeply but infrequently; avoid fertilizing in extreme heat.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer; apply during growing season; avoid over-fertilizing; flush soil periodically.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength; fertilize lightly in spring and summer; avoid fertilizing in fall and winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicOrnithopus perpusillus is not considered toxic to cats. The plant does not produce any known compounds that are harmful to felines.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Non-toxicOrnithopus perpusillus is not considered toxic to dogs. The plant does not contain any known substances that are harmful to canines.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Non-toxicOrnithopus perpusillus is not considered toxic to humans. It is a small leguminous plant that does not produce any known toxic compounds.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Ornithopus perpusillus toxic to pets?
A: No, it is non-toxic to dogs and cats.
Q: Does this plant require much care?
A: It is very low maintenance and drought tolerant.
Q: What are the common uses of Ornithopus perpusillus?
A: It is primarily used as a ground cover and for attracting wildlife.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Fabaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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