Lotus hirsutus, commonly known as Canary Clover or Hairy Canary-clover, is a semi-evergreen subshrub native to the Mediterranean region, particularly thriving in dry, open areas such as coastal scrub, rocky hillsides, and grasslands. It typically reaches a height of 20–50 centimeters (7.9–19.7 inches) and has an erect, green, hairy, and branched habit. The foliage is notable for its silvery appearance, with sessile, alternate, and fuzzy leaves. The flowers, which bloom from May through July, are white veined with pinkish-red and form in terminal umbels of four to ten. The fruits are cylindrical reddish-brown seed pods, adding to the plant’s ornamental value.

Canary Clover is valued for its drought tolerance and ability to thrive in poor soils, making it an excellent choice for xeriscaping and Mediterranean gardens. It is also appreciated for its attractive foliage and flowers, which have earned it the Royal Horticultural Society’s Award of Garden Merit in the United Kingdom. This plant is well-suited for rock gardens, as ground cover, or in coastal gardens where its tolerance to salt spray is beneficial. It requires a sheltered spot in full sun and well-drained soil. While it is hardy down to −10 °C (14 °F), it may need protection in colder climates or during severe winter conditions.CC BY-SA 4.0