Overview
Lotus hirsutus is a plant with a spreading habit in the genus Lotus, part of the Fabaceae family, with deciduous foliage. Lotus hirsutus grows best in full sun, and tolerates loam soils and neutral pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H4. Suggested uses include ground cover, erosion control and ornamental borders.
About
Lotus hirsutus, also known by the synonym Dorycnium hirsutum, common name: canary clover or hairy canary-clover, is a species of flowering plant in the legume family Fabaceae.
Wikipedia contributors, CC BY-SA 4.0 — Lotus hirsutus
About the genus
Lotus, a latinization of Greek lōtos, is a genus of flowering plants that includes most bird's-foot trefoils and deervetches. Depending on the taxonomic authority, roughly between 70 and 150 species are accepted, all legumes; American species formerly placed in the genus have been transferred to other genera. Lotus species are found in the Eastern Hemisphere and adapted to a wide range of habitats.
Wikipedia contributors, "Lotus (genus)", CC BY-SA 4.0 — Lotus (genus)
Growing conditions
Best soil and position for Lotus
- Sunlight
- Full sun
- Soil type
- Loam
- Soil pH
- Neutral
- Soil moisture
- Well-drained
- Aspect
- South-facing
- Exposure
- Sheltered
- UK hardiness
- H4
Plant details
Lotus hirsutus size, habit and characteristics
- Habit
- Spreading
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Suggested uses
- Ground cover, erosion control, ornamental borders
Care notes
Pruning and caring for Lotus hirsutus
- Propagation
- Seed, division
- Pest resistance
- High
- Disease resistance
- High
Frequently asked questions
Where is the best place to plant Lotus hirsutus?
Lotus hirsutus prefers full sun. It suits sheltered positions.
What soil does Lotus hirsutus need?
Lotus hirsutus grows best in loam soil. It prefers neutral soil. Aim for soil that stays well-drained.
Is Lotus hirsutus hardy in the UK?
Lotus hirsutus has an RHS hardiness rating of H4, meaning it is hardy through an average UK winter, tolerating -10 to -5°C.
How do I propagate Lotus hirsutus?
Seed, division.
From the Fenn Plants journal
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