Contents
Description
Lotus Ornithopodioides is a perennial herb that belongs to the Fabaceae family. It is commonly known as ‘Birdsfoot Deervetch’ due to its appearance resembling the hooves of a deer. It is native to Europe, North Africa, and Western Asia. The plant grows up to 60 cm in height and has a stem that is hairy and branched. The leaves are alternate and pinnate with small leaflets that are oval in shape. The flowers are yellow or orange and bloom from May to August. The seeds are small and enclosed in a pod.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Angiospermae |
| Order | Fabales |
| Family | Fabaceae |
| Genus | Lotus |
Appearance
The Lotus Ornithopodioides is a small plant that grows up to 60 cm in height. The stem is hairy and branched. The leaves are alternate and pinnate with small leaflets that are oval in shape. The flowers are yellow or orange and bloom from May to August. The seeds are small and enclosed in a pod. It is commonly known as ‘Birdsfoot Deervetch’ due to its appearance resembling the hooves of a deer.
Care Guide
The Lotus Ornithopodioides is a hardy plant that is low maintenance. It can grow in a variety of soils but prefers well-drained soil. It is drought-tolerant and can grow in full sun to partial shade. The plant needs regular watering during its growing season. Fertilize the plant once a year with a balanced fertilizer. It can grow in USDA hardiness zones 4-8.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Lotus Ornithopodioides is generally free from pests and diseases. However, it can be susceptible to fungal diseases such as powdery mildew and root rot. To prevent these diseases, ensure that the soil is well-drained and avoid overwatering the plant. The plant can also be affected by spider mites and aphids. Use insecticidal soap to control these pests.
Habitat
The Lotus Ornithopodioides is native to Europe, North Africa, and Western Asia. It can grow in a variety of habitats such as meadows, grasslands, and rocky slopes. The plant is adapted to dry and arid climates and can tolerate drought conditions. It is also a nitrogen-fixing plant that can improve soil quality.
Question and Answer
Q: Can the Lotus Ornithopodioides be grown in containers?
A: Yes, the plant can be grown in containers. However, ensure that the container has good drainage and the soil is well-drained.
Q: Is the Lotus Ornithopodioides toxic to pets?
A: No, the plant is not toxic to pets. However, it is always advisable to keep pets away from plants.
Q: Can the Lotus Ornithopodioides be used for erosion control?
A: Yes, the plant is suitable for erosion control due to its ability to grow in a variety of soils and its nitrogen-fixing ability.
Q: How often should the Lotus Ornithopodioides be fertilized?
A: The plant needs to be fertilized once a year with a balanced fertilizer.
Related Plants
- Lotus Corniculatus
- Lotus Tenuis
- Lotus Glaber
- Lotus Uliginosus
References
- https://www.gardenia.net/plant/lotus-ornithopodioides-birdsfoot-deervetch
- https://www.fs.fed.us/wildflowers/plant-of-the-week/lotus_ornithopodioides.shtml
- https://www.northcreeknurseries.com/plantName/Lotus-ornithopodioides
