Common Bird’s-foot Trefoil (Lotus corniculatus) is a yellow-flowered perennial wildflower ideal for grassland restoration and pollinator habitats. A low-growing, resilient species suited to sunny, free-draining soils.
Benefits
Long-flowering, pollinator-friendly native perennial
Ideal for green roofs, verges, and calcareous grasslands
Supports butterfly larvae and insect biodiversity
Effective for soil binding and drought-prone areas
Works well in nutrient-poor soils and low-maintenance sites
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Common Bird’s-foot Trefoil (Lotus corniculatus) is a low-growing, native UK wildflower that’s highly valued in wildflower meadows, green roofs, verges, and pollinator mixes. Recognised for its vibrant yellow pea-like flowers with orange-red tinges, this species is an essential nectar source for bees, butterflies, and other beneficial insects. Its foliage also supports the larvae of several butterfly species, including the Common Blue.
Thriving in well-drained, nutrient-poor soils, it performs well in sunny grasslands, slopes, embankments, and calcareous meadows. It is drought-tolerant, excellent for stabilising soil, and ideal for areas needing long-term, low-maintenance vegetation.
Features & Benefits
Bright yellow-orange flowers that attract bees and butterflies
Excellent for low-nutrient grasslands, green roofs, and verges
Supports a wide range of pollinators and butterfly larvae
Drought-tolerant and ideal for soil stabilisation
Long-flowering, resilient UK native perennial
Latin Name:
Lotus corniculatus
Flowering Time:
May – September
Flowering Height:
10 – 40 cm
Life Cycle:
Perennial
Wildflower Seed Approximate Sowing Rate:
3.75kg per acre (9.25kg per hectare)
Sowing Times:
Spring (March – May) or Autumn (August – October)
How to Sow & Preparation
Choose a sunny, well-drained site with low to moderate fertility.
Clear weeds and prepare a fine, level seedbed.
Broadcast seed evenly by hand or with a spreader.
Lightly firm the seed into the surface using a roller or foot pressure.
Avoid burying the seed too deeply—contact with soil is key.
Keep grass growth managed during establishment through mowing.
About John Chambers Wildflower Seeds
John Chambers Wildflower Seeds has been a trusted supplier of native UK wildflower seeds for over 35 years. Known for its high-quality, locally sourced seed and outstanding customer service, John Chambers provides ecological solutions for landscape contractors, local authorities, and conservationists focused on creating sustainable, biodiverse landscapes.
Attribute Detail
Latin Name Lotus corniculatus
Flowering Time May – September
Flowering Height 10 – 40 cm
Life Cycle Perennial
Sowing Rate 3.75kg per acre (9.25kg per hectare)
Sowing Period Spring or Autumn
Preferred Conditions Dry, sunny, low-nutrient soils
Pollinator Friendly Yes
Minimum Order Quantity 100g
Ideal For Grasslands, verges, embankments, green roofs, meadows
