Greater bird's-foot-trefoil (Lotus Pedunculatus)
IMG_1793
Taken in the vicinity of Walkhampton, along the Banks of the River Meavy, Dartmoor, England, GBR.
Greater Bird’s-foot Trefoil (Lotus pedunculatus) is a perennial herb in the pea family (Fabaceae), native to Europe and Asia. Similar to Common Bird’s-foot Trefoil (L. corniculatus), it is distinguished by its taller growth, erect stalks up to 15 cm, and clusters of 5–12 dull yellow flowers. Its seedpods, resembling multiple bird toes, inspired its name. The bluish-green, pinnate leaves have five leaflets and may be hairy or smooth; the plant also features hollow stems.
Unlike its common relative, it lacks a notable fragrance and is not used culinarily, though individual scent perception may vary. Also known as Big Trefoil or Marsh Bird’s-foot Trefoil, this species is valued ecologically and agriculturally—supporting pollinators, stabilising soil through deep roots, fixing nitrogen, and serving as forage for livestock and wildlife.
Kitching, Aaron. ‘Greater Bird’s Foot Trefoil’, 2025. www.wildflowerweb.co.uk/plant/1500/greater-birds-foot-tre....
Greater bird's-foot-trefoil (Lotus Pedunculatus)
IMG_1793
Taken in the vicinity of Walkhampton, along the Banks of the River Meavy, Dartmoor, England, GBR.
Greater Bird’s-foot Trefoil (Lotus pedunculatus) is a perennial herb in the pea family (Fabaceae), native to Europe and Asia. Similar to Common Bird’s-foot Trefoil (L. corniculatus), it is distinguished by its taller growth, erect stalks up to 15 cm, and clusters of 5–12 dull yellow flowers. Its seedpods, resembling multiple bird toes, inspired its name. The bluish-green, pinnate leaves have five leaflets and may be hairy or smooth; the plant also features hollow stems.
Unlike its common relative, it lacks a notable fragrance and is not used culinarily, though individual scent perception may vary. Also known as Big Trefoil or Marsh Bird’s-foot Trefoil, this species is valued ecologically and agriculturally—supporting pollinators, stabilising soil through deep roots, fixing nitrogen, and serving as forage for livestock and wildlife.
Kitching, Aaron. ‘Greater Bird’s Foot Trefoil’, 2025. www.wildflowerweb.co.uk/plant/1500/greater-birds-foot-tre....