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{{short description|Species of flowering plant in the bean family Fabaceae}}
{{Short description|Plant species in the pea family}}
{{redirect|Birdsfoot trefoil|other plants known by this name|Lotus (genus)}}
{{Redirect|Birdsfoot trefoil|other plants known by this name|Lotus (genus)}}
{{Speciesbox
{{Speciesbox
|image=(MHNT) Lotus corniculatus - Plant habit.jpg
| image = (MHNT) Lotus corniculatus - Plant habit.jpg
| image_caption =
|genus=Lotus
| genus = Lotus
|species=corniculatus
| species = corniculatus
|authority=[[Carl Linnaeus|L.]]
| authority = [[L.]]
⚫
|synonyms_ref=<ref name=powo >
| subdivision_ranks = Subspecies
| subdivision_ref = <ref name="POWO" />
| subdivision = {{Species list
| Lotus corniculatus subsp. afghanicus | Chrtková
| Lotus corniculatus subsp. corniculatus |
| Lotus corniculatus subsp. delortii | (Timb.-Lagr.) Nyman
| Lotus corniculatus subsp. fruticosus | Chrtková
| Lotus corniculatus subsp. preslii | (Ten.) P.Fourn.
}}
⚫
| synonyms_ref = <ref name="POWO" />
|synonyms={{Collapsible list|
|synonyms={{Collapsible list|
*''Lotus alpicola'' {{small|(Beck) Miniaev, Ulle & Kritzk.}}
*''Lotus alpicola'' {{small|(Beck) Miniaev, Ulle & Kritzk.}}
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*''Lotus zhegulensis'' {{small|Klokov}}
*''Lotus zhegulensis'' {{small|Klokov}}
*''Mullaghera communis'' {{small|Bubani}}
*''Mullaghera communis'' {{small|Bubani}}
}}
}}
}}
}}


'''''Lotus corniculatus''''' is a [[flowering plant]] in the pea family [[Fabaceae]], native to grasslands in temperate [[Eurasia]] and North [[Africa]]. Common names include '''common bird's-foot trefoil''',<ref name=BSBI07>{{BSBI 2007 |access-date=2014-10-17 }}</ref> '''eggs and bacon''',<ref>{{Cite web |url=http://www.plantlife.org.uk/uk/discover-wild-plants-nature/plant-fungi-species/birds-foot-trefoil |title=Bird's-foot trefoil |website=Plantlife |language=en |access-date=2018-04-16}}</ref> '''birdsfoot deervetch''',<ref name=usdafactsheet>{{cite web |title=Plant Fact Sheet, Birdsfoot Trefoil |url=https://plants.usda.gov/factsheet/pdf/fs_loco6.pdf |website=plants.usda.gov |publisher=United States Department of Agriculture, Natural Resources Conservation Service |access-date=2018-10-19}}</ref> and just '''bird's-foot trefoil''',<ref name=usda>{{PLANTS|id=LOCO6|taxon=Lotus corniculatus |access-date=23 June 2015}}</ref> though the latter name is often also applied to other members of the genus.
'''''Lotus corniculatus''''' is a [[flowering plant]] in the pea family [[Fabaceae]]. Common names include '''common bird's-foot trefoil''',<ref name=BSBI07>{{BSBI 2007 |access-date=2014-10-17 }}</ref> '''eggs and bacon''',<ref>{{Cite web |url=http://www.plantlife.org.uk/uk/discover-wild-plants-nature/plant-fungi-species/birds-foot-trefoil |title=Bird's-foot trefoil |website=Plantlife |language=en |access-date=2018-04-16 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220413153440/http://www.plantlife.org.uk/uk/discover-wild-plants-nature/plant-fungi-species/birds-foot-trefoil |archive-date=2022-04-13}}</ref> '''birdsfoot deervetch''',<ref name=usdafactsheet>{{cite web |title=Plant Fact Sheet, Birdsfoot Trefoil |url=https://plants.usda.gov/factsheet/pdf/fs_loco6.pdf |website=plants.usda.gov |publisher=United States Department of Agriculture, Natural Resources Conservation Service |access-date=2018-10-19}}</ref> and just '''bird's-foot trefoil'''<ref name=usda>{{PLANTS|id=LOCO6|taxon=Lotus corniculatus |access-date=23 June 2015}}</ref> (a name also often applied to other ''Lotus'' spp.). It has a wide distribution and is a favored [[forage]] for livestock.

⚫
It is a [[Perennial plant|perennial]] [[herb]]aceous plant, similar in appearance to some [[clover]]s. The name 'bird's foot' refers to the appearance of the seed pods on their stalk. Five [[leaf]]lets are present, but with the central three held conspicuously above the others, hence the use of the name 'trefoil'. It is often used as forage and is widely used as food for livestock due to its nonbloating properties.


==Description==
==Description==
The height of the plant is variable, from {{convert|5|to|20|cm|in|abbr=off|0}}, occasionally more where supported by other plants; the stems can reach up to {{convert|50|cm|in|0|abbr=on}} long. It is typically sprawling at the height of the surrounding grassland. It can survive fairly close grazing, trampling, and mowing. It is most often found in sandy [[soil]]s. It flowers from June to September. The flowers develop into small pea-like pods or [[legume]]s.
It is a perennial [[herb]]aceous plant. The height of the plant is variable, from {{convert|5|to|20|cm|in|abbr=off|0}}, occasionally more where supported by other plants; the stems can reach up to {{convert|50|cm|in|0|abbr=on}} long.


⚫
The name 'bird's foot' refers to the appearance of the seed pods on their stalk. Five [[leaf]]lets are present, but with the central three held conspicuously above the others, hence the use of the name 'trefoil'.
⚫
The plant had many common [[English language|English]] names in [[UK|Britain]], which are now mostly out of use. These names were often connected with the yellow and orange colour of the flowers, e.g. 'butter and eggs'. One name that is still used is '''eggs and bacon''' (or '''bacon and eggs''').<ref>''Collins English Dictionary''</ref>

The flowers bloom from June to September and develop into small pea-like pods or [[legume]]s.

⚫
The plant had many common English names in [[UK|Britain]], which are now mostly out of use. These names were often connected with the yellow and orange colour of the flowers, e.g. 'butter and eggs'. One name that is still used is '''eggs and bacon''' (or '''bacon and eggs''').<ref>''Collins English Dictionary''</ref>

It is similar in appearance to some [[clover]]s.
[[File:Lotus corniculatus Minnesota.jpg|thumb|''Lotus corniculatus'' flowers in southeastern Minnesota (late July 2016)]]
[[File:Lotus corniculatus Minnesota.jpg|thumb|''Lotus corniculatus'' flowers in southeastern Minnesota (late July 2016)]]


==Subtaxa==
==Subtaxa==
The following subspecies are accepted:<ref name="powo" />
The following subspecies are accepted:<ref name="POWO" />
*''Lotus corniculatus'' subsp. ''afghanicus'' {{small|Chrtková}}
*''Lotus corniculatus'' subsp. ''afghanicus'' {{small|Chrtková}}
*''Lotus corniculatus'' subsp. ''corniculatus''
*''Lotus corniculatus'' subsp. ''corniculatus''
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==Distribution and habitat==
==Distribution and habitat==
''Lotus corniculatus'' has a broad distribution worldwide.<ref name=usda/><ref name=powo >{{cite web |title=''Lotus corniculatus'' L. |url=http://plantsoftheworldonline.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:30179739-2 |website=Plants of the World Online |publisher=Royal Botanical Gardens Kew |access-date=2022-04-23}}</ref> It is common everywhere in Britain.<ref>Martin, K. ''The Concise British Flora in Colour.''</ref> It is abundant in Ireland,<ref>Parnell, J. and Curtis, T. 2012. ''Webb's An Irish Flora.'' Cork University Press {{ISBN|978-185918-4783}}</ref> and also in Northern Ireland, including [[County Londonderry]], [[County Down]], and [[County Antrim]].<ref name="Hackney"/> Habitats include old fields, grassy places,<ref>Clapham, A.R., Tutin, T.G. and Warburg, E.F. 1968. ''Excursion Flora of the British Isles'', Cambridge University Press. {{ISBN|0-521-04656-4}}</ref> and roadsides.<ref name="Hackney">Hackney, P. (Ed) 1992. ''Stewart & Corry's Flora of the North-east of Ireland,'' Third Edition. Institute of Irish Studies,The Queen's University of Belfast. {{ISBN|0-85389-446-9}}</ref>
''Lotus corniculatus'' has a broad distribution worldwide.<ref name=usda/><ref name="POWO">{{cite POWO |id=30179739-2 |title=''Lotus corniculatus'' L. |access-date=6 July 2024}}</ref> It is native to temperate Eurasia and North Africa.{{Citation needed|date=November 2024}} It is common everywhere in Britain<ref>Martin, K. ''The Concise British Flora in Colour.''</ref> and Ireland.<ref>Parnell, J. and Curtis, T. 2012. ''Webb's An Irish Flora.'' Cork University Press {{ISBN|978-185918-4783}}</ref><ref name="Hackney"/>


Habitats include old fields, grassy places,<ref>Clapham, A.R., Tutin, T.G. and Warburg, E.F. 1968. ''Excursion Flora of the British Isles'', Cambridge University Press. {{ISBN|0-521-04656-4}}</ref> and roadsides.<ref name="Hackney">Hackney, P. (Ed) 1992. ''Stewart & Corry's Flora of the North-east of Ireland,'' Third Edition. Institute of Irish Studies,The Queen's University of Belfast. {{ISBN|0-85389-446-9}}</ref> It is typically sprawling at the height of the surrounding grassland. It can survive fairly close grazing, trampling, and mowing. It is most often found in sandy [[soil]]s.
⚫
==Uses==
⚫
It is used in [[agriculture]] as a [[Fodder|forage]] plant, grown for [[pasture]], [[hay]], and [[silage]]. It is a high quality forage that does not cause bloat in ruminants.<ref name="Feedipedia">{{cite web |author1=Heuzé V. |author2=Tran G. |author3=Nozière P. |author4=Lebas F. |date=2016 |title=Birdsfoot trefoil (Lotus corniculatus) |website=Feedipedia.org |url=https://www.feedipedia.org/node/280 |access-date=8 February 2016}}</ref> Taller-growing [[cultivar]]s have been developed for this. It may be used as an alternative to [[alfalfa]] in poor soils.


⚫
== Ecology ==
⚫
A double-flowered variety is grown as an [[ornamental plant]]. It is regularly included as a component of [[wildflower]] mixes in [[Europe]]. It can also prevent soil erosion and provide a good habitat for wildlife.<ref name="Feedipedia" />
⚫
The flowers are mostly visited by [[bumblebee]]s.<ref>{{Cite journal |last1=Van Der Kooi |first1=C. J. |last2=Pen |first2=I. |last3=Staal |first3=M. |last4=Stavenga |first4=D. G. |last5=Elzenga |first5=J. T. M. |year=2015 |title=Competition for pollinators and intra-communal spectral dissimilarity of flowers |url=https://pure.rug.nl/ws/files/78585910/Competition_for_pollinators_and_intra_communal_spectral_dissimilarity_of_flowers.pdf |journal=Plant Biology |volume=18 |issue=1 |pages=56–62 |doi=10.1111/plb.12328 |pmid=25754608}}</ref> In the Chicago Region, mostly non-native bees have been observed visiting the flowers, including ''[[Andrena wilkella]]'', ''[[Anthidium oblongatum]]'', ''[[Apis mellifera]]'' and ''[[Megachile rotundata]]''.<ref name="fotcr">{{cite book |last1=Wilhelm |first1=Gerould |title=Flora of the Chicago Region: A Floristic and Ecological Synthesis |last2=Rericha |first2=Laura |date=2017 |publisher=Indiana Academy of Sciences}}</ref> The native bees ''[[Bombus impatiens]]'' and ''[[Megachile relativa]]'' have also been observed visiting birdsfoot trefoil flowers, though the latter only rarely.<ref name="fotcr" />


⚫
The plant is an important [[nectar]] source for many [[insect]]s and is also used as a [[larva]]l food plant by many species of [[Lepidoptera]] such as [[six-spot burnet]] and the [[silver-studded blue]].<ref>{{Cite journal |last1=Thomas |first1=C. D. |last2=Glen |first2=S. W. T. |last3=Lewis |first3=O. T. |last4=Hill |first4=J. K. |last5=Blakeley |first5=D. S. |date=1999-02-01 |title=Population differentiation and conservation of endemic races: the butterfly, Plebejus argus |journal=Animal Conservation |language=en |volume=2 |issue=1 |pages=15–21 |bibcode=1999AnCon...2...15T |doi=10.1111/j.1469-1795.1999.tb00044.x |issn=1469-1795 |s2cid=44647405}}</ref> It is a host plant for the wood white butterfly, ''[[Leptidea sinapis]]''.<ref>Clarke, S. A.; Green, D. G.; Joy, J.; Wollen, K.; Butler, I. (2011-04-01). [https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s10841-010-9300-8 "Leptidea sinapis (Wood White butterfly) egg-laying habitat and adult dispersal studies in Herefordshire"]. ''Journal of Insect Conservation''. '''15''' (1-2): 23–35. [[Digital object identifier|doi]]:[[doi:10.1007/s10841-010-9300-8|10.1007/s10841-010-9300-8]]. [[International Standard Serial Number|ISSN]] [[issn:1366-638X|1366-638X]].</ref>
⚫
Fresh bird's-foot trefoil contains [[Glycoside#Cyanogenic glycosides|cyanogenic glycosides]],<ref>{{Cite web |url=http://www.pfaf.org/database/plants.php?Lotus+corniculatus |title=Lotus corniculatus Bird's Foot Trefoil PFAF Plant Database |website=Pfaf.org}}</ref> which release small amounts of [[hydrogen cyanide]] when macerated. This is not normally poisonous to humans, though, as the dose is very low, and the metabolization of cyanide is relatively quick.<ref>{{cite journal |jstor=4215630 |title=Cyanogenic Glycosides in Lotus corniculatus. Their Effect upon Growth, Energy Budget, and Nitrogen Utilization of the Southern Armyworm, Spodoptera eridania |first=J. Mark |last=Scriber |date=1 January 1978 |journal=Oecologia |volume=34 |issue=2 |pages=143–155 |doi=10.1007/BF00345163 |pmid=28309546 |s2cid=189827997}}</ref> Condensed tannins are also present in ''L. corniculatus''.<ref>{{cite journal |url=http://www.grassland.org.nz/publications/nzgrassland_publication_492.pdf |format=PDF |journal=Proceedings of the New Zealand Grassland Association |volume=61 |pages=51–55 |date=1999 |title=The effect of condensed tannins in Lotus corniculatus upon reproductive efficiency and wool production in sheep during late summer and autumn |access-date=22 March 2022}}</ref>


=== As an invasive species ===
⚫
In the traditional medicine of the Sannio regio of Italy, the diluted infusions were used for anxiety, insomnia, and exhaustion.<ref>{{Cite journal |last=Guarino |first=Carmine |date=2008-08-30 |title=Ethnobotanical Study of the Sannio Area, Campania, Southern Italy |journal=Ethnobotany Research and Applications |volume=6 |pages=255 |doi=10.17348/era.6.0.255-317 |doi-access=free |issn=1547-3465 |url=http://scholarspace.manoa.hawaii.edu/bitstream/10125/12485/1/i1547-3465-06-255.pdf }}</ref>
⚫
Birdsfoot trefoil is an [[invasive species]] in many parts of North America and [[Australia]]. It has been commonly planted along roadsides for erosion control or pastures for [[forage]] and then spreads into [[remnant natural area|natural areas]].<ref name="usdafactsheet" /><ref name="fotcr" /> Once it has established in an area, it can outcompete [[native species]].<ref name="fotcr" /> The use of [[prescribed fire]] is not an effective management tool against ''L. corniculatus'' and herbicide is recommended instead to control it.<ref name="fotcr" />


==Potential health concerns==
⚫
==Ecology==
⚫
The species contains [[Glycoside#Cyanogenic glycosides|cyanogenic glycosides]],<ref>{{Cite web |title=Lotus corniculatus Bird's Foot Trefoil PFAF Plant Database |url=http://www.pfaf.org/database/plants.php?Lotus+corniculatus |website=Pfaf.org}}</ref> which release small amounts of [[hydrogen cyanide]] when macerated. This is not normally poisonous to humans, though, as the dose is very low, and the metabolization of cyanide is relatively quick.<ref>{{cite journal |last=Scriber |first=J. Mark |date=1 January 1978 |title=Cyanogenic Glycosides in Lotus corniculatus. Their Effect upon Growth, Energy Budget, and Nitrogen Utilization of the Southern Armyworm, Spodoptera eridania |journal=Oecologia |volume=34 |issue=2 |pages=143–155 |doi=10.1007/BF00345163 |jstor=4215630 |pmid=28309546 |s2cid=189827997}}</ref> Condensed tannins are also present.<ref>{{cite journal |date=1999 |title=The effect of condensed tannins in Lotus corniculatus upon reproductive efficiency and wool production in sheep during late summer and autumn |url=http://www.grassland.org.nz/publications/nzgrassland_publication_492.pdf |journal=Proceedings of the New Zealand Grassland Association |volume=61 |pages=51–55 |access-date=22 March 2022}}</ref>
⚫
The flowers are mostly visited by [[bumblebee]]s.<ref>{{Cite journal |doi=10.1111/plb.12328 |pmid=25754608 |title=Competition for pollinators and intra-communal spectral dissimilarity of flowers |journal=Plant Biology |volume=18 |issue=1 |pages=56–62 |year=2015 |last1=Van Der Kooi |first1=C. J. |last2=Pen |first2=I. |last3=Staal |first3=M. |last4=Stavenga |first4=D. G. |last5=Elzenga |first5=J. T. M. |url=https://www.researchgate.net/publication/273158762}}</ref> In the Chicago Region, mostly non-native bees have been observed visiting the flowers, including ''[[Andrena wilkella]]'', ''[[Anthidium oblongatum]]'', ''[[Apis mellifera]]'' and ''[[Megachile rotundata]]''.<ref name=fotcr>{{cite book |last1=Wilhelm |first1=Gerould |last2=Rericha |first2=Laura |date=2017 |title=Flora of the Chicago Region: A Floristic and Ecological Synthesis |publisher=Indiana Academy of Sciences}}</ref> The native bees ''[[Bombus impatiens]]'' and ''[[Megachile relativa]]'' have also been observed visiting birdsfoot trefoil flowers, though the latter only rarely.<ref name=fotcr/>


⚫
==Uses==
⚫
The plant is an important [[nectar]] source for many [[insect]]s and is also used as a [[larva]]l food plant by many species of [[Lepidoptera]] such as [[six-spot burnet]] and the [[silver-studded blue]].<ref>{{Cite journal |last1=Thomas |first1=C. D. |last2=Glen |first2=S. W. T. |last3=Lewis |first3=O. T. |last4=Hill |first4=J. K. |last5=Blakeley |first5=D. S. |date=1999-02-01 |title=Population differentiation and conservation of endemic races: the butterfly, Plebejus argus |journal=Animal Conservation |language=en |volume=2 |issue=1 |pages=15–21 |doi=10.1111/j.1469-1795.1999.tb00044.x |s2cid=44647405 |issn=1469-1795 |url=https://semanticscholar.org/paper/735bc5c93fff6d6569b17f1dc66c73ece590ad5f}}</ref> It is a host plant for the wood white butterfly, ''[[Leptidea sinapis]]''.<ref>Clarke, S. A.; Green, D. G.; Joy, J.; Wollen, K.; Butler, I. (2011-04-01). [https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s10841-010-9300-8 "Leptidea sinapis (Wood White butterfly) egg-laying habitat and adult dispersal studies in Herefordshire"]. ''Journal of Insect Conservation''. '''15''' (1-2): 23–35. [[Digital object identifier|doi]]:[https://doi.org/10.1007%2Fs10841-010-9300-8 10.1007/s10841-010-9300-8]. [[International Standard Serial Number|ISSN]] [https://www.worldcat.org/issn/1366-638X 1366-638X].</ref>
⚫
It is used in [[agriculture]] as a forage plant, grown for [[pasture]], [[hay]], and [[silage]]. It is a high quality forage that does not cause bloat in ruminants.<ref name="Feedipedia">{{cite web |author1=Heuzé V. |author2=Tran G. |author3=Nozière P. |author4=Lebas F. |date=2016 |title=Birdsfoot trefoil (Lotus corniculatus) |website=Feedipedia.org |url=https://www.feedipedia.org/node/280 |access-date=8 February 2016}}</ref> Taller-growing [[cultivar]]s have been developed for this.{{citation needed|date=June 2022}} It may be used as an alternative to [[alfalfa]] in poor soils.


⚫
A double-flowered variety is grown as an [[ornamental plant]]. It is regularly included as a component of [[wildflower]] mixes in [[Europe]]. It can also prevent soil erosion and provide a good habitat for wildlife.<ref name="Feedipedia" />
==Invasive species==

⚫
Birdsfoot trefoil is an [[invasive species]] in many parts of [[North America]] and [[Australia]]. It has been commonly planted along roadsides for erosion control or pastures for forage and then spreads into [[remnant natural area|natural areas]].<ref name=usdafactsheet/><ref name=fotcr/> Once it has established in an area, it can outcompete [[native species]].<ref name=fotcr/> The use of [[prescribed fire]] is not an effective management tool against ''Lotus corniculatus'' and herbicide is recommended instead to control it.<ref name=fotcr/>
⚫
In the traditional medicine of the Sannio regio of Italy, the diluted infusions were used for anxiety, insomnia, and exhaustion.<ref>{{Cite journal |last=Guarino |first=Carmine |date=2008-08-30 |title=Ethnobotanical Study of the Sannio Area, Campania, Southern Italy |journal=Ethnobotany Research and Applications |volume=6 |pages=255 |doi=10.17348/era.6.0.255-317 |doi-access=free |issn=1547-3465 |url=http://scholarspace.manoa.hawaii.edu/bitstream/10125/12485/1/i1547-3465-06-255.pdf }}</ref>


==Gallery==
==Gallery==
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==External links==
==External links==
{{Commons category}}
{{Wikiversity-bc|Lotus corniculatus}}
{{Wikiversity-bc|Lotus corniculatus}}
*[https://www.jstor.org/stable/pdf/2260243.pdf Jones, D.A. and Turkington, R., 1986. Biological flora of the British Isles: ''Lotus corniculatus''. Journal of Ecology 74, pp.1185-1212.]
*[https://www.jstor.org/stable/pdf/2260243.pdf Jones, D.A. and Turkington, R., 1986. Biological flora of the British Isles: ''Lotus corniculatus''. Journal of Ecology 74, pp.1185-1212.]
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{{Taxonbar|from=Q29907}}
{{Taxonbar|from=Q29907}}
{{Authority control}}


[[Category:Lotus (genus)|corniculatus]]
[[Category:Lotus (genus)|corniculatus]]

Latest revision as of 09:13, 28 November 2024

"Birdsfoot trefoil" redirects here. For other plants known by this name, see Lotus (genus).

Lotus corniculatus
Scientific classification Edit this classification
Kingdom: Plantae
Clade: Tracheophytes
Clade: Angiosperms
Clade: Eudicots
Clade: Rosids
Order: Fabales
Family: Fabaceae
Subfamily: Faboideae
Genus: Lotus
Species:
L. corniculatus
Binomial name
Lotus corniculatus
Subspecies[1]
  • Lotus corniculatus subsp. afghanicus Chrtková
  • Lotus corniculatus subsp. corniculatus
  • Lotus corniculatus subsp. delortii (Timb.-Lagr.) Nyman
  • Lotus corniculatus subsp. fruticosus Chrtková
  • Lotus corniculatus subsp. preslii (Ten.) P.Fourn.
Synonyms[1]
List
    • Lotus alpicola (Beck) Miniaev, Ulle & Kritzk.
    • Lotus ambiguus Besser ex Spreng.
    • Lotus angustifolius Gueldenst.
    • Lotus arvensis Pers.
    • Lotus balticus Miniaev
    • Lotus barcinonensis Sennen
    • Lotus bracteatus Wall.
    • Lotus callunetorum (Üksip) Miniaev
    • Lotus catalaunicus Sennen
    • Lotus caucasicus Kuprian.
    • Lotus colocensis Menyh.
    • Lotus corniculatus var. alandicus Chrtková
    • Lotus corniculatus subsp. ambiguus (Besser ex Spreng.) Tzvelev
    • Lotus corniculatus var. arvensis (Pers.) Ser.
    • Lotus corniculatus subsp. callunetorum (Üksip) Tzvelev
    • Lotus corniculatus f. carnosus (Pers.) Ostenf.
    • Lotus corniculatus var. crassifolius Pers.
    • Lotus corniculatus var. fallax Chrtková
    • Lotus corniculatus var. futakii Starm.
    • Lotus corniculatus subsp. komarovii (Miniaev) Tzvelev
    • Lotus corniculatus var. norvegicus Chrtková
    • Lotus corniculatus var. posoniensis Chrtková
    • Lotus corniculatus subsp. ruprechtii (Miniaev) Tzvelev
    • Lotus corniculatus var. sativus Hyl.
    • Lotus corniculatus var. sennenii Afr.Fern.
    • Lotus corniculatus var. sibthorpii (Rouy) Asch. & Graebn.
    • Lotus corniculatus var. slovacus (Chrtková) Starm.
    • Lotus delortii Timb.-Lagr.
    • Lotus delortii var. rivasii Afr.Fern.
    • Lotus depressus Willd.
    • Lotus dvinensis Miniaev & Ulle
    • Lotus forsteri Sweet
    • Lotus gibbus Beeke
    • Lotus haeupleri G.H.Loos
    • Lotus humifusus Willd.
    • Lotus juzepczukii Seregin
    • Lotus komarovii Miniaev
    • Lotus norvegicus (Chrtková) Miniaev
    • Lotus olgae Klokov
    • Lotus orphanidis Ujhelyi
    • Lotus pentaphyllos Gilib.
    • Lotus pilosissimus Schur
    • Lotus pilosus Jord.
    • Lotus preslii Ten.
    • Lotus riparius Pers.
    • Lotus rostellatus Heldr.
    • Lotus ruprechtii Miniaev
    • Lotus sativus (Hyl.) Büscher & G.H.Loos
    • Lotus stenodon (Boiss. & Heldr.) Heldr.
    • Lotus suberectus G.H.Loos
    • Lotus symmetricus Jord.
    • Lotus tauricus Juz.
    • Lotus tauricus Steud.
    • Lotus tchihatchewii Boiss.
    • Lotus tenuifolius C.Presl
    • Lotus uliginosus Hoffm.
    • Lotus zhegulensis Klokov
    • Mullaghera communis Bubani

Lotus corniculatus is a flowering plant in the pea family Fabaceae. Common names include common bird's-foot trefoil,[2] eggs and bacon,[3] birdsfoot deervetch,[4] and just bird's-foot trefoil[5] (a name also often applied to other Lotus spp.). It has a wide distribution and is a favored forage for livestock.

Description

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It is a perennial herbaceous plant. The height of the plant is variable, from 5 to 20 centimetres (2 to 8 inches), occasionally more where supported by other plants; the stems can reach up to 50 cm (20 in) long.

The name 'bird's foot' refers to the appearance of the seed pods on their stalk. Five leaflets are present, but with the central three held conspicuously above the others, hence the use of the name 'trefoil'.

The flowers bloom from June to September and develop into small pea-like pods or legumes.

The plant had many common English names in Britain, which are now mostly out of use. These names were often connected with the yellow and orange colour of the flowers, e.g. 'butter and eggs'. One name that is still used is eggs and bacon (or bacon and eggs).[6]

It is similar in appearance to some clovers.

Lotus corniculatus flowers in southeastern Minnesota (late July 2016)

Subtaxa

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The following subspecies are accepted:[1]

  • Lotus corniculatus subsp. afghanicus Chrtková
  • Lotus corniculatus subsp. corniculatus
  • Lotus corniculatus subsp. delortii (Timb.-Lagr.) Nyman
  • Lotus corniculatus subsp. fruticosus Chrtková
  • Lotus corniculatus subsp. preslii (Ten.) P.Fourn.

Distribution and habitat

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Lotus corniculatus has a broad distribution worldwide.[5][1] It is native to temperate Eurasia and North Africa.[citation needed] It is common everywhere in Britain[7] and Ireland.[8][9]

Habitats include old fields, grassy places,[10] and roadsides.[9] It is typically sprawling at the height of the surrounding grassland. It can survive fairly close grazing, trampling, and mowing. It is most often found in sandy soils.

Ecology

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The flowers are mostly visited by bumblebees.[11] In the Chicago Region, mostly non-native bees have been observed visiting the flowers, including Andrena wilkella, Anthidium oblongatum, Apis mellifera and Megachile rotundata.[12] The native bees Bombus impatiens and Megachile relativa have also been observed visiting birdsfoot trefoil flowers, though the latter only rarely.[12]

The plant is an important nectar source for many insects and is also used as a larval food plant by many species of Lepidoptera such as six-spot burnet and the silver-studded blue.[13] It is a host plant for the wood white butterfly, Leptidea sinapis.[14]

As an invasive species

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Birdsfoot trefoil is an invasive species in many parts of North America and Australia. It has been commonly planted along roadsides for erosion control or pastures for forage and then spreads into natural areas.[4][12] Once it has established in an area, it can outcompete native species.[12] The use of prescribed fire is not an effective management tool against L. corniculatus and herbicide is recommended instead to control it.[12]

Potential health concerns

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The species contains cyanogenic glycosides,[15] which release small amounts of hydrogen cyanide when macerated. This is not normally poisonous to humans, though, as the dose is very low, and the metabolization of cyanide is relatively quick.[16] Condensed tannins are also present.[17]

Uses

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It is used in agriculture as a forage plant, grown for pasture, hay, and silage. It is a high quality forage that does not cause bloat in ruminants.[18] Taller-growing cultivars have been developed for this.[citation needed] It may be used as an alternative to alfalfa in poor soils.

A double-flowered variety is grown as an ornamental plant. It is regularly included as a component of wildflower mixes in Europe. It can also prevent soil erosion and provide a good habitat for wildlife.[18]

In the traditional medicine of the Sannio regio of Italy, the diluted infusions were used for anxiety, insomnia, and exhaustion.[19]

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  • Flowerheads and 5-leaflet leaves
    Flowerheads and 5-leaflet leaves
  • Young seedhead
    Young seedhead
  • Along high-altitude roadside
    Along high-altitude roadside

References

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  1. ^ a b c d "Lotus corniculatus L." Plants of the World Online. Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew. Retrieved 6 July 2024.
  2. ^ BSBI List 2007 (xls). Botanical Society of Britain and Ireland. Archived from the original (xls) on 2015-06-26. Retrieved 2014-10-17.
  3. ^ "Bird's-foot trefoil". Plantlife. Archived from the original on 2022-04-13. Retrieved 2018-04-16.
  4. ^ a b "Plant Fact Sheet, Birdsfoot Trefoil" (PDF). plants.usda.gov. United States Department of Agriculture, Natural Resources Conservation Service. Retrieved 2018-10-19.
  5. ^ a b NRCS. "Lotus corniculatus". PLANTS Database. United States Department of Agriculture (USDA). Retrieved 23 June 2015.
  6. ^ Collins English Dictionary
  7. ^ Martin, K. The Concise British Flora in Colour.
  8. ^ Parnell, J. and Curtis, T. 2012. Webb's An Irish Flora. Cork University Press ISBN 978-185918-4783
  9. ^ a b Hackney, P. (Ed) 1992. Stewart & Corry's Flora of the North-east of Ireland, Third Edition. Institute of Irish Studies,The Queen's University of Belfast. ISBN 0-85389-446-9
  10. ^ Clapham, A.R., Tutin, T.G. and Warburg, E.F. 1968. Excursion Flora of the British Isles, Cambridge University Press. ISBN 0-521-04656-4
  11. ^ Van Der Kooi, C. J.; Pen, I.; Staal, M.; Stavenga, D. G.; Elzenga, J. T. M. (2015). "Competition for pollinators and intra-communal spectral dissimilarity of flowers" (PDF). Plant Biology. 18 (1): 56–62. doi:10.1111/plb.12328. PMID 25754608.
  12. ^ a b c d e Wilhelm, Gerould; Rericha, Laura (2017). Flora of the Chicago Region: A Floristic and Ecological Synthesis. Indiana Academy of Sciences.
  13. ^ Thomas, C. D.; Glen, S. W. T.; Lewis, O. T.; Hill, J. K.; Blakeley, D. S. (1999-02-01). "Population differentiation and conservation of endemic races: the butterfly, Plebejus argus". Animal Conservation. 2 (1): 15–21. Bibcode:1999AnCon...2...15T. doi:10.1111/j.1469-1795.1999.tb00044.x. ISSN 1469-1795. S2CID 44647405.
  14. ^ Clarke, S. A.; Green, D. G.; Joy, J.; Wollen, K.; Butler, I. (2011-04-01). "Leptidea sinapis (Wood White butterfly) egg-laying habitat and adult dispersal studies in Herefordshire". Journal of Insect Conservation. 15 (1-2): 23–35. doi:10.1007/s10841-010-9300-8. ISSN 1366-638X.
  15. ^ "Lotus corniculatus Bird's Foot Trefoil PFAF Plant Database". Pfaf.org.
  16. ^ Scriber, J. Mark (1 January 1978). "Cyanogenic Glycosides in Lotus corniculatus. Their Effect upon Growth, Energy Budget, and Nitrogen Utilization of the Southern Armyworm, Spodoptera eridania". Oecologia. 34 (2): 143–155. doi:10.1007/BF00345163. JSTOR 4215630. PMID 28309546. S2CID 189827997.
  17. ^ "The effect of condensed tannins in Lotus corniculatus upon reproductive efficiency and wool production in sheep during late summer and autumn" (PDF). Proceedings of the New Zealand Grassland Association. 61: 51–55. 1999. Retrieved 22 March 2022.
  18. ^ a b Heuzé V.; Tran G.; Nozière P.; Lebas F. (2016). "Birdsfoot trefoil (Lotus corniculatus)". Feedipedia.org. Retrieved 8 February 2016.
  19. ^ Guarino, Carmine (2008-08-30). "Ethnobotanical Study of the Sannio Area, Campania, Southern Italy" (PDF). Ethnobotany Research and Applications. 6: 255. doi:10.17348/era.6.0.255-317. ISSN 1547-3465.
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Wikimedia Commons has media related to Lotus corniculatus.
Wikiversity has bloom time data for Lotus corniculatus on the Bloom Clock
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