Origin
The Lotus oroboides auct. non (Kunth) Ottley, commonly known as Little False Trefoil, is a perennial plant of the pea family (Fabaceae) that is native to the Western United States.
Common Names
Aside from Little False Trefoil, Lotus oroboides auct. non (Kunth) Ottley is also commonly known as Inyo clover, woollypod lotus, and bird's-foot deervetch.
Uses
Little False Trefoil can be used for a variety of purposes. It's commonly used as a forage plant for cattle, deer, and other animals. Its seeds are also used to feed game birds, such as quail and doves, and other small birds. Additionally, the plant has been used for soil stabilization due to its taproot and nitrogen-fixing abilities, making it useful in erosion control projects and in restoration of disturbed lands. The plant also has medicinal properties and has been used traditionally by indigenous people to treat a variety of ailments, including coughs, colds, and stomach aches.
General Appearance
The Little False Trefoil plant typically grows from 6 to 24 inches tall and spreads by rhizomes to form a mat. The plant has a taproot system that can reach two feet deep, allowing it to access water and nutrients deep in the soil. The leaves are compound with three leaflets and have a silvery, hairy appearance. The flowers are small and pea-like, and can range in color from pink to purple. The plant blooms in the spring and summer months and produces small, oblong pod-like fruits that contain the plant's seeds.
Light Requirements
The plant Lotus oroboides auct. non (Kunth) Ottley generally prefers to grow in full sunlight, with at least 6 hours of direct sunlight each day. If grown in areas with less light, the plant may not bloom as vibrantly, develop slowly and may also become more susceptible to disease.
Temperature Requirements
The plant Lotus oroboides auct. non (Kunth) Ottley grows best in moderate temperatures, ranging between 20°C to 25°C. It can tolerate both drought and frost, however, developing and growing quicker during the summer months when the temperatures are more suitable for plant growth.
Soil Requirements
The plant Lotus oroboides auct. non (Kunth) Ottley prefers soil that is well-draining and rich with nutrients. The soil pH should range between 6.5 to 7.5. The plant can tolerate a wide range of soil types, including clay soils, loamy soils and sandy soils; however, they all should provide a good amount of drainage, and be able to hold enough moisture to allow for the plant to grow and develop properly. If the soil is poor in nutrients, add organic material like compost to improve the growth conditions of the plant.
Cultivation of Lotus oroboides
Lotus oroboides is a hardy, drought-tolerant plant that is easy to grow in a variety of conditions. It prefers well-drained soil and lots of sunlight. When planting, make sure to space the plants at least a foot apart to allow for growth.
Watering Needs
While Lotus oroboides is drought-tolerant, it still needs regular watering to thrive. Water the plant deeply about once a week, making sure the soil is moist but not waterlogged. During periods of drought, increase the frequency of watering to prevent the plant from drying out.
Fertilization
Lotus oroboides does not require frequent fertilization. However, adding a slow-release granular fertilizer at the beginning of each growing season can help promote healthy growth. Avoid using high-nitrogen fertilizers, which can encourage excessive foliage growth at the expense of blooms.
Pruning
Pruning is not required for Lotus oroboides but can be done to improve the plant's appearance and encourage bushier growth. To prune, simply cut back any dead or damaged stems and trim back any excessive growth. Pruning should be done in late winter or early spring before new growth appears.
Propagation of Lotus oroboides
Lotus oroboides, also known as the streambank bird's-foot trefoil, is a perennial plant species that belongs to the Fabaceae family. It is native to North America and grows well in wet soils such as streambanks and wet meadows. There are several methods to propagate Lotus oroboides including:
Seed propagation
The most common and easiest method of propagating Lotus oroboides is through seed propagation. Collect the seeds from the matured fruits in the fall. These seeds can be sown directly in the desired location or can be stored for later use. Scarification of the seeds is found to increase the germination rate. Seeds may be soaked in water and then boiled for 5-10 minutes before planting.
Cutting propagation
Another method of propagation is through cuttings. Take cuttings of new growth in spring or early summer and place them in a mixture of perlite and peat moss. Keep the cuttings moist and place them in a warm, bright location. Once the cuttings have rooted, they can be transplanted to a larger container or to the garden.
Division
Lotus oroboides can also be propagated through division. In early spring, dig up the plant and divide the root ball into several sections. Each section should contain a healthy rhizome and several buds. Plant the divided sections in the desired location and water them regularly until they establish.
Propagation of Lotus oroboides is a simple process and can be done through seeds, division, or cuttings. With proper care, these methods will yield healthy plants that will add beauty to your garden or landscape.
Disease Management
Lotus oroboides is susceptible to a variety of diseases, including leaf spot, powdery mildew, and root rot. Leaf spot is characterized by small, dark, circular lesions on the leaves. Powdery mildew appears as a white coating on the leaves, stems, and flowers. Root rot causes the roots to become soft and mushy, ultimately leading to plant death.
To manage these diseases, it is important to maintain good plant hygiene and provide proper growing conditions. Avoid overhead watering and instead water at the base of the plant to minimize moisture on the leaves. Remove any infected plant debris and dispose of it far away from the growing area. Also, ensure that the soil is well-draining to prevent the buildup of excess moisture, which can promote fungal growth. If necessary, use fungicides specific to the disease, following the instructions carefully.
Pest Management
Some common pests that might affect Lotus oroboides include aphids, spider mites, and mealybugs. Aphids are small, pear-shaped insects that cluster on the leaves and stems, sucking sap from the plant. Spider mites are tiny arachnids that spin webs on the leaves and cause yellowing and browning of the foliage. Mealybugs are small, white, powdery insects that congregate on the undersides of leaves and in leaf axils.
To manage pests, it is important to monitor the plants regularly and identify any signs of infestation early on. For small infestations, a strong stream of water can be used to dislodge the insects. For larger infestations, use insecticides specific to the type of pest and follow the instructions carefully. Additionally, beneficial insects like ladybugs and lacewings can be introduced to the garden as a natural form of pest control.
