Cretan bird's-foot trefoil (Lotus creticus)

Cretan bird's-foot trefoil

Also known as: Silvery birdsfoot trefoil, Southern birdsfoot trefoil

With a fascinating name like cretan bird's-foot trefoil, there must a reason, and in this case the name derives from the plant's appearance. It looks like a bird foot, and its leaves evoke the shape of a clover. It features hairy gray-green leaves, and its yellow petals are bilabiate, growing in pairs of an inner and outer "lip" that help protect its pollen.

Scientific classification

Species

Cretan bird's-foot trefoil (Lotus creticus)

Legumes, milkworts and allies

Instantly identify plants with a snap

Snap a photo for instant plant ID, gaining quick insights on disease prevention, treatment, toxicity, care, uses, and symbolism, etc.

Download the App for Free

Perennial

Lifespan

Herb

Plant Type

Spring, Summer

Bloom Time

20 cm to 1.5 m

Plant Height

1.2 cm to 1.8 cm

Flower Size

Yellow

Flower Color

Images of Cretan bird's-foot trefoil

Distribution of Cretan bird's-foot trefoil

Distribution Map

Cretan bird's-foot trefoil is naturally found across the coastal regions of the Mediterranean Basin, with extensions into select areas of the northern African coast. This plant tends to flourish in its native habitats, which consist of typically Mediterranean climates. It has not been reported as widely introduced or naturalized outside of these native ranges, maintaining a relatively concentrated presence in its natural distribution zones.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

Discover plant distribution and habitat

Gain insights into where plants thrive and how they adapt, helping you identify, cultivate, and protect them with essential information on habitats, distribution maps, and climate trends.

Download the App for Free

Habitat

Grasslands and scrublands of dunes, Coastal sand

Hemisphere Trend Curve

Northern

Sorthern

Care Guide for Cretan bird's-foot trefoil

Every week

Water

Full sun

Sunlight

0 - 32 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Water: Native to the Mediterranean, cretan bird's-foot trefoil thrives in sunny, dry conditions with occasional rainfall. It prefers moderate humidity and is drought-tolerant, needing weekly watering. For optimal growth, cretan bird's-foot trefoil requires well-draining soil to prevent root rot, emulating its natural sandy habitats.

Fertilize: To ensure optimal health and flowering of cretan bird's-foot trefoil, use a balanced nutrition fertilizer every 4 weeks during spring and summer, avoiding overfertilization. Limit feeding during dormancy in winter and introduce fertilizers gradually to new plants, favoring moderate nitrogen levels for sturdy growth.

Pruning: Cretan bird's-foot trefoil features vibrant yellow flowers and benefits from light pruning in early to late spring. This encourages bushier growth and maintains a tidy appearance. Avoid heavy pruning to prevent stress, as timely trimming supports vigorous growth and enhances flowering.

Propagation: Cretan bird's-foot trefoil thrives in Mediterranean climates and propagates well through cuttings. Use healthy, vigorous material, preferably semi-hardwood, taken during the growing season. Maintain consistent moisture and warmth, avoiding waterlogging. Rooting hormone may aid success, but cretan bird's-foot trefoil can root without it.

Get tips and tricks for your plants.

Keep your plants happy and healthy with our guide to watering, lighting, feeding and more.

Download the App for Free

Images of Cretan bird's-foot trefoil

Distribution of Cretan bird's-foot trefoil

Care Guide for Cretan bird's-foot trefoil

PEOPLE ALSO ASK