AGR-175

Forage Identification and Use Guide

Birdsfoot Trefoil

Lotus corniculatus

Leaf consists of five leaflets, with lower pair smaller than upper three pairs. Leaflets have a triangular shape and have very prominent stipules (leaflike structures) on the lower stem.

Birdsfoot trefoil has a bright yellow flower and seed pods that are arranged in the shape of a bird's foot.

Description
Short-lived perennial legume.
Uses
Pasture.
Advantages
Palatable, non-bloating legume. Tolerant of low fertility and pH. Excellent for mine reclamation.
Disadvantages
Plants subject to crown rot and must be allowed to reseed each year to persist. Low seedling vigor compared to other legumes. Slow to establish in existing sod.
Seeding
Rate: 6-12 lb/a
Depth: ¼-½ in
Date: Mar 1-Apr 15
Harvest
First harvest: May 1-May 15
Annual yield: 1-3 tons/dry matter/a

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