Common Bird’s-foot-trefoil (Lotus corniculatus) is a perennial flowering plant native to the United Kingdom, belonging to the Fabaceae family. It is commonly found in various habitats, including grasslands, meadows, roadsides, and waste grounds across the UK.

Common Bird’s-foot-trefoil thrives in nutrient-poor to moderately fertile, well-drained soils, often favouring open habitats with full sun. It can tolerate a wide range of soil types and environmental conditions, making it adaptable to different habitats.

Predators of Common Bird’s-foot-trefoil include herbivores such as grazing mammals, which may feed on its foliage. However, its bitter-tasting leaves and the presence of secondary compounds often deter extensive browsing.

As a perennial plant, Common Bird’s-foot-trefoil can live for several years, forming dense clumps of sprawling stems and producing clusters of bright yellow pea-like flowers in summer. It reproduces via seeds, which are dispersed by wind or animals.

Culturally, Common Bird’s-foot-trefoil is often regarded as a symbol of conservation and biodiversity. It is valued for its role in supporting pollinators such as bees and butterflies, and its presence in grasslands and meadows enhances their ecological value.

An interesting fact about Common Bird’s-foot-trefoil is its ability to fix nitrogen in the soil through its symbiotic relationship with nitrogen-fixing bacteria in its root nodules. This capability allows it to thrive in nutrient-poor soils and improve soil fertility in grassland ecosystems.