Greene’s Bird’s-Foot Trefoil: A Lesser-Known Native Gem
If you’re on the hunt for native plants that fly under the radar, Greene’s bird’s-foot trefoil (Lotus greenei) might just pique your interest. This humble perennial forb belongs to the pea family and represents one of nature’s quieter contributions to the American Southwest’s plant palette.
What Makes This Plant Special?
Greene’s bird’s-foot trefoil is a true native of the lower 48 states, specifically calling Arizona and New Mexico home. As a perennial forb, it’s the kind of plant that comes back year after year without the woody stems of shrubs or trees. Think of it as an herbaceous perennial that keeps its growing points tucked safely at or below ground level – a smart survival strategy for dealing with harsh conditions.
This native species grows naturally in Arizona and New Mexico, where it has adapted to the unique conditions of the American Southwest.
Should You Plant Greene’s Bird’s-Foot Trefoil?
Here’s where things get interesting – and a bit challenging. While this plant’s native status makes it an appealing choice for gardeners focused on supporting local ecosystems, detailed cultivation information is surprisingly scarce. This isn’t uncommon with lesser-known native species that haven’t made their way into mainstream horticulture.
The Reality of Growing Lotus greenei
If you’re considering adding this native to your garden, you’ll be venturing into somewhat uncharted territory. Here’s what we do know:
- It’s a perennial, so it should return each growing season
- As a member of the pea family, it likely fixes nitrogen in the soil
- It’s adapted to conditions in Arizona and New Mexico
- Being a forb, it won’t compete with trees and shrubs for space
Finding and Growing This Native
The biggest challenge with Greene’s bird’s-foot trefoil is simply finding it. Most nurseries don’t carry this particular species, and growing information is limited. If you’re determined to include it in your native plant garden, your best bet is to:
- Contact native plant societies in Arizona and New Mexico
- Reach out to botanical gardens in the region
- Connect with local habitat restoration groups
- Check with university extension programs
Alternative Native Options
If you’re drawn to the idea of native legumes but can’t locate Greene’s bird’s-foot trefoil, consider these more readily available southwestern natives:
- Desert lupine (Lupinus sparsiflorus)
- Fairy duster (Calliandra eriophylla)
- Ghost plant (Graptopetalum paraguayense) – though not a legume
The Bottom Line
Greene’s bird’s-foot trefoil represents the fascinating world of lesser-known native plants that deserve more attention. While it may not be the easiest plant to source or grow, its native status makes it valuable for supporting local ecosystems in Arizona and New Mexico. If you’re an adventurous gardener in these regions, tracking down this species could be a rewarding challenge that contributes to preserving regional plant diversity.
Sometimes the most interesting gardening adventures come from seeking out the plants that others overlook – and Greene’s bird’s-foot trefoil certainly fits that bill.
