Australian trefoil (Lotus australis, Bot. Repos. 10: t. 624 (1811))

Family: Fabaceae

Author: Andrews

Bibliography: Bot. Repos. 10: t. 624 (1811)

Year: 1811

Status: accepted

Rank: species

Genus: Lotus

Vegetable: False

Observations: Nansei-shoto to Taiwan (Lan Yü), Papuasia to Australia

Description

Australian trefoil, scientifically known as Lotus australis, is a species that holds a significant place within the Fabaceae family. Documented in botanical literature as early as 1811 by Andrews in “Bot. Repos. 10: t. 624”, this plant is renowned for its wide geographical distribution and adaptation to diverse environmental conditions.

The natural range of Lotus australis spans from the islands of Nansei-shoto to Taiwan, including the specific location of Lan Yü. Additionally, it extends through Papuasia reaching all the way to various parts of Australia. This broad coverage highlights the plant’s resilience and versatility in thriving across distinct climatic regions, from tropical to temperate zones.

As a member of the Fabaceae family, commonly known as the legume, pea, or bean family, Australian trefoil shares similarities with other legumes in its ability to form symbiotic relationships with nitrogen-fixing bacteria, thereby enriching soil fertility. This characteristic not only benefits its own growth but also supports other plants growing in the same vicinity, making it a valuable species in various ecological landscapes.

The Australian trefoil is notable for its trifoliate leaves, which resemble those of clovers and give the plant its common name. The flowers are often characterized by their delicate, legume-typical form that can contribute to the aesthetic value of natural and cultivated landscapes. Moreover, the plant’s adaptability to different soil types and its capacity to thrive in both dry and moderately moist environments make it a versatile choice for gardeners and ecologists alike.

Understanding the historical and botanical significance of Lotus australis provides deeper insights into its role within its natural habitats. Its persistence through vast regions and varied climates underscores its importance in ecological conservation and landscape maintenance.

Common Names

Eng: australian trefoil, barwon river lotus, barwon river lucerne, barwon river trefoil, poison-clover
En: Australian trefoil, Poison-clover, Barwon River lotus, Barwon River lucerne, Barwon River trefoil
Ja: Shirobana-miyakogusa

Synonyms

• Lotus australis var. normalis (Domin)

Distribution

• Bismarck Archipelago (native)
• New Guinea (native)
• New South Wales (native)
• Queensland (native)
• South Australia (native)
• Tasmania (native)
• Victoria (native)
• Western Australia (native)

Additional Images

Flower

Taken Jul 21, 2022 by Michal Svit (cc-by-sa)

Taken Oct 20, 2019 by that’s someguy (cc-by-sa)

© copyright of the Board of Trustees of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew.

Sources

• WFO (No URL)
• IPNI (No URL)
• GBIF (https://www.gbif.org/species/5356808)
• POWO (http://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:503495-1)
• PlantNet (https://identify.plantnet.org/species/the-plant-list/Lotus australis Andrews)

Specifications

Growth