About Lotus hirsutus L.
Lotus hirsutus L. is a low-growing, domed semi-evergreen subshrub that reaches an average height of 20–50 centimetres (7.9–19.7 in). Its stems are erect, green, hairy, and branched. Its silver leaves are sessile, alternately arranged, and quite fuzzy. The flowers are white with pinkish-red veins, borne in terminal umbels that hold four to ten flowers each. Flowering occurs from May through July. The fruits are cylindrical, reddish-brown seed pods. This plant is native to the Mediterranean Basin, ranging from Portugal to Turkey and south to northern Africa. Its typical habitat is grassland with well-drained soil, and it can be found growing at altitudes between 0 and 1,500 metres (0–4,921 ft). It is grown in cultivation. While it is hardy to temperatures as low as −10 °C (14 °F), it needs a sheltered location in full sun. In the United Kingdom, it has received the Royal Horticultural Society's Award of Garden Merit.
