About Lotus dorycnium L.
Lotus dorycnium L. grows to an average height between 10 and 70 centimetres (3.9–27.6 inches). Its stems and branches are woody. Its leaves are divided into five segments, and have hairs on both sides. This species produces small white flowers, arranged in terminal umbels holding 5 to 20 flowers each on a short stalk. Its flowering season runs from May to July. The fruits are ovoid reddish-brown legumes, 3 to 6 millimetres (0.12–0.24 inches) long, that contain one or two seeds. Lotus dorycnium has a broadly Mediterranean distribution. It prefers habitats in semi-arid hills, sunny dry pastures, and Mediterranean environments, and tolerates all soil types. It grows at altitudes ranging from 0 to 1,300 metres (0–4,265 feet).
