This low-growing, sprawling member of the pea family features bright, egg-yolk yellow flower clusters that often develop distinctive reddish or orange streaks. Its blue-green leaves display five small leaflets. Following pollination, the plant develops straight, dark seed pods that spread out from a single stalk, perfectly mimicking the structural appearance of a small bird’s claw.
Interesting Facts
Its curious folk names reflect its unique appearance: “Eggs and Bacon” captures the dual-toned yellow and red petals, while “Granny’s Toenails” highlights the sharp, talon-like shape of its mature seed pods. Historically utilised in traditional Italian folk medicine to alleviate insomnia and anxiety, this resilient plant relies on deep taproots to comfortably survive heavy foot traffic, severe droughts, and nutrient-poor soils.
Importance to Wildlife
An absolute powerhouse for biodiversity, this plant acts as a vital food source for over 130 distinct insect species. It serves as the primary, essential caterpillar host plant for several declining British butterflies, including the Common Blue, Dingy Skipper, and Green Hairstreak. Its nectar-rich, slipper-shaped blossoms simultaneously attract and support a massive variety of bumblebees, solitary bees, and specialised pollinators.
Advice
This small plant suffers badly under the mower when it cuts low; but it’s resilient and will come back.