Bird’s-foot-trefoil  (Lotus corniculatus)

Learn about the scientific name of this species and how it fits into the tree of life at Nature Navigator.

Description

The humble and diminutive bird’s-foot-trefoil goes by a plethora of local names; Geoffrey Grigson, in ‘The Englishman’s Flora’ counted over 70 (4). Many of these names, including bacon and eggs, refer to the delightful colouration of the flowers, which are a rich yolk-yellow, often streaked with bright red (2). Some, such as ‘Dutchman’s clogs’ and ‘lady’s slippers’ hint at the general shape of the flowers, which resemble old fashioned slippers or shoes (5). The long seed-pods, which are reminiscent of claws, are alluded to by yet other names, including ‘granny’s toenails’ and ‘Devil’s fingers’ (5). This familiar member of the pea family (Fabaceae) creeps along the ground; the stems and lance-shaped leaflets are typically smooth (6).

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