Spotted Bird's-foot Trefoil
lotus maculatus
Also known as: ["Spotted Bird's-foot Trefoil"]
Overview
A perennial herbaceous plant with yellow flowers and spotted leaves, native to parts of Europe and Asia.
Benefits & Perks
["wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","low maintenance","drought tolerant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Fabales |
| Family: | Fabaceae |
| Genus: | Lotus |
| Botanical Name: | Lotus maculatus |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: indoor pot in a shaded area or outdoor in a sheltered, moist garden bed
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"15–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"9–11"}
- Misting: every 2–3 days in dry climates, rarely needed in humid environments
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining potting mix with added perlite or sand for aeration.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: low
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically every 2–3 months or after flowering.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; avoid removing more than one-third of the plant at a time.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily; can tolerate some direct morning sun but avoid harsh afternoon sun.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Gradually acclimate to brighter light to prevent leaf burn; place in a spot with filtered light if outdoors; indoors, keep near an east or west-facing window.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easyeasy
Sunlight
partial shade to full shade
Rotate plant weekly for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter intense light; avoid direct afternoon sun.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly until it drains from the bottom; allow soil to dry slightly between waterings; avoid overwatering.
Soil
moist, rich, organic soil with good water retention
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure pots have drainage holes; avoid heavy clay soils; top-dress with compost annually.
Temperature
Prefers 65–80°F (18–27°C); tolerates slight fluctuations but avoid prolonged exposure to extreme heat or cold.
Avoid drafty areas; maintain consistent room temperature; protect from sudden temperature drops.
Fertilizing
every 2–4 weeks during growing season, none in winter
Flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; apply fertilizer to moist soil to avoid root burn; stop fertilizing in winter.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings in water or soil.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a 4–6 inch cutting.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Place in water or soil.
- Keep moist and warm.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm, humid environment with indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining potting mix or water for initial rooting.
Hormone
Optional but can speed up rooting.
Timeline
Roots typically form in 2–4 weeks; new growth may take 1–2 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone (optional), small pots or jars.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; change water regularly if using water propagation; maintain humidity for faster rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Snip stems just above a leaf node or junction; remove yellow or damaged leaves.
Pruning Plan
Remove dead or leggy stems to encourage bushier growth and improve air circulation.
Tools
Clean pruning shears or scissors.
Checklist
Sanitize tools; prune dead or overgrown stems; remove yellow leaves; shape as desired.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before the active growing season begins.
Pot Size
Choose a pot 1–2 inches larger in diameter than the current one.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim any circling roots; place in a new pot with fresh soil; water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot every 1–2 years or when roots outgrow the pot; promotes fresh soil and root growth.
Checklist
Prepare new pot with drainage; gently remove plant; trim roots if needed; add fresh soil; water lightly.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water thoroughly; ensure drainage; adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone; water early in the day to minimize evaporation; ensure excess water drains away to prevent waterlogging.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once the top inch of soil feels dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand for drainage; incorporate organic matter like compost for fertility.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, yellowing leaves, or stunted growth in cold; leaf scorch or drooping in excessive heat.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, causes leaf drop, and may lead to root damage if temperatures drop below 50°F (10°C).
Solution: Move to a warmer location; use a space heater if necessary; insulate pots with bubble wrap in cold climates.
Hot Stress
Leaves may scorch, wilt, or drop; growth may slow due to excessive transpiration.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity with misting or a humidifier; ensure adequate watering.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check fertilizer type; dilute correctly; apply during growing season; avoid winter feeding.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season (spring to early fall); avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicLotus maculatus is not known to have any toxic effects on cats.
⚡ Toxic If:
not applicable
Dogs
Non-toxicLotus maculatus is not known to have any toxic effects on dogs.
⚡ Toxic If:
not applicable
Humans
Non-toxicLotus maculatus is not known to have any toxic effects on humans.
⚡ Toxic If:
not applicable
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Lotus maculatus toxic to pets?
A: There is insufficient data on its toxicity to pets.
Q: How often should Lotus maculatus be watered?
A: Water moderately, allowing the soil to dry slightly between waterings.
Q: Does Lotus maculatus attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and other pollinators.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Fabaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | partial shade to full shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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