Lotus corniculatus L.
Lotus corniculatus
Lotus corniculatus, commonly known as bird's-foot trefoil, is a perennial herbaceous plant with variable height ranging from 5 to 20 centimeters (occasionally up to 50 cm when supported). It has five leaflets with the central three held conspicuously above the others, giving it a distinctive 'bird's foot' appearance. The flowers bloom from June to September and develop into small pea-like pods or legumes. It is similar in appearance to some clovers and is known for its yellow and orange flowers, which have earned it common names like 'eggs and bacon' or 'bacon and eggs'.
Details
Fabales
Fabaceae
Lotus
The plant contains cyanogenic glycosides, which release small amounts of hydrogen cyanide when macerated. Condensed tannins are also present.
Lotus corniculatus is used in agriculture as a forage plant for pasture, hay, and silage. It provides high-quality forage that does not cause bloat in ruminants. Taller-growing cultivars have been developed for this purpose. It is also used as an ornamental plant and in wildflower mixes. Additionally, it can prevent soil erosion and provide a good habitat for wildlife. In traditional medicine, diluted infusions were used for anxiety, insomnia, and exhaustion.
June to September
5 to 20 centimeters (occasionally up to 50 cm)
Yellow and orange
Old fields, grassy places, roadsides, and sandy soils
Info
Pannon Flora Ltd. was founded on December 13, 1999, by Gábor Janik, who retains 95% ownership. Janik holds an MSc in Horticulture from the University of Horticultural Sciences (1986) and an Advanced Professional English Certification from the College of International Trade (1990). The company specializes in bird feed production and export, primarily serving markets in Italy, Germany, the Netherlands, and the UK, alongside cultivating and distributing imported/exported horticultural seeds. It maintains exclusive partnerships with JOEUN Seed (South Korea) and Takii Europe (Japan), a leader in professional seed breeding and production. Pannon Flora collaborates with certification bodies such as NÉBIH (National Food Chain Safety Office), MERT Kontroll, and SGS Hungary to ensure compliance and quality. The company works with approximately 400 Hungarian growers, ranging from small-scale producers (under 5 hectares) to mid-sized farms and large-scale agricultural enterprises. This profile emphasizes agribusiness expertise, technical partnerships, and operational scalability tailored to international client needs.
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