Birdsfoot Trefoil - Lotus corniculatus Seeds

Birdsfoot Trefoil Seeds – Lotus corniculatus

Birdsfoot Trefoil Seeds produce cheerful clusters of bright golden-yellow flowers above attractive green foliage, creating a colourful display from late spring through summer. Known botanically as Lotus corniculatus, this traditional British native wildflower is an excellent choice for wildflower meadows, wildlife gardens, grasslands, and naturalised planting.

The nectar-rich flowers are particularly valuable to bees, butterflies, and other beneficial insects. Birdsfoot Trefoil is also an important food plant for the caterpillars of several butterfly species, making it a valuable addition to gardens designed to support native wildlife and biodiversity.

Hardy, adaptable, and low maintenance, this attractive perennial wildflower performs particularly well in sunny, well-drained locations and can return year after year once established.

Key Features

Traditional British native wildflower with golden-yellow flowers.

Known botanically as Lotus corniculatus.

Excellent for wildflower meadows and naturalised planting.

Highly attractive to bees, butterflies, and other pollinators.

Important food plant for several butterfly caterpillars.

Hardy perennial that returns year after year.

Suitable for grasslands, banks, and wildlife-friendly gardens.

How to Grow Birdsfoot Trefoil Seeds

Sow Birdsfoot Trefoil Seeds directly outdoors from spring through autumn into prepared soil.

Scatter seeds thinly onto the soil surface and lightly rake or press them in to ensure good contact with the ground.

Keep the soil lightly moist while seedlings become established.

Grow in a sunny position with well-drained soil for the best flowering performance.

Once established, plants require relatively little maintenance and can be allowed to flower and set seed naturally.

Birdsfoot Trefoil Growing Tips

Grow in full sun for the best flowering display.

Avoid overly fertile soil when establishing a wildflower meadow.

Keep competing vegetation controlled while young plants establish.

Allow flowers to set seed naturally to encourage future plants.

Combine with other British wildflowers to create a diverse wildlife habitat.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Birdsfoot Trefoil native to Britain?
Yes, Lotus corniculatus is a native British wildflower commonly found in grasslands, meadows, roadside verges, and other grassy habitats.

Does Birdsfoot Trefoil attract butterflies?
Yes, its flowers provide nectar for butterflies, while the plant is also an important caterpillar food plant for several species.

Is Birdsfoot Trefoil a perennial?
Yes, it is a hardy perennial wildflower that can return year after year.

Can Birdsfoot Trefoil be grown in a wildflower meadow?
Yes, it is an excellent choice for meadow planting and combines well with other native wildflowers.

Perfect For

Wildflower meadows

Wildlife gardens

Bee-friendly planting

Butterfly gardens

Naturalised areas

Native wildflower planting

Grassland planting

Biodiversity gardens