Lotus tenuis

Lotus tenuis

Lotus tenuis in bloom

Lotus tenuis, commonly known as the narrow-leaved trefoil, is a species of flowering plant in the Fabaceae family. It is native to parts of Europe and Asia, and has been introduced to other regions, including North America and Australia.

Description

Lotus tenuis is a perennial herbaceous plant that typically grows to a height of 20 to 50 centimeters. The plant has slender, trailing stems and compound leaves with five leaflets. The leaflets are narrow and elongated, giving the plant its common name. The flowers are small, yellow, and pea-like, arranged in clusters of 2 to 6. The flowering period is from late spring to early summer.

Habitat

This species is commonly found in grasslands, meadows, and along roadsides. It prefers well-drained soils and can tolerate a range of soil types, including sandy and clay soils. Lotus tenuis is often found in areas with full sun to partial shade.

Ecology

Close-up of Lotus tenuis flowers

Lotus tenuis plays an important role in its ecosystem as a nitrogen-fixing plant. It forms symbiotic relationships with rhizobia bacteria, which convert atmospheric nitrogen into a form that is usable by plants. This process enriches the soil and benefits other plant species in the vicinity.

The flowers of Lotus tenuis attract a variety of pollinators, including bees and butterflies. The plant also serves as a food source for certain Lepidoptera species, whose larvae feed on its leaves.

Uses

Lotus tenuis is used in agriculture and landscaping for its ability to improve soil fertility and prevent erosion. It is sometimes planted as a cover crop or used in pasture mixes for livestock grazing. The plant's tolerance to poor soil conditions makes it a valuable species for land reclamation projects.

Related pages

• Fabaceae
• Nitrogen fixation
• Pollination