Common sainfoin (Onobrychis viciifolia)

Also known as: Holy clover

**Common sainfoin (Onobrychis viciifolia)** is a tall, perennial herbaceous legume that flowers in both spring and fall. Its pink-striped blossoms grow in clusters along the stems and are particularly attractive to various bee species. The plant produces seed pods with small spikes that can attach to animal fur, aiding in the dispersal of seeds to new areas.

In This Article

Care Tips Water Sunlight Temperature Soil Fertilize Prune Propagation Repotting

Attributes of Common sainfoin

Lifespan

Perennial

Plant Type

Herb

Plant Height

40 cm to 80 cm

Spread

60 cm

Leaf Color

Green

Flower Size

1.5 cm to 3 cm

Flower Color

Pink

Images of Common sainfoin

Quickly Identify Common sainfoin

Identify Onobrychis viciifolia by its compound leaves with numerous lanceolate leaflets, characteristic pink to purple spikes of flowers, and distinctive cylindrical seed pods.

Scientific Classification of Common sainfoin

Phylum

Vascular plants

Class

Dicotyledons

Order

Fabales

Family

Legume

Genus

Sainfoins

Species

Common sainfoin

Planting and Growing of Common sainfoin

Care Difficulty

Easy

Watering Schedule

Every 3 days

Sunlight Requirements

Full sun

Sunshine Duration

6-8 hours

Ideal Temperature

60-75℉

Soil Type

Potting Mix, Peat Mix

Soil pH

6.5-7.5

Fertilizer Type

Balanced

Pruning Season

Spring, Summer

Pruning Area

Branches, Leaves

Pruning Frequency

2 times a year

Repotting Season

Spring

Pot Type

Terracotta, Plastic

How to Water Common sainfoin?

For Onobrychis viciifolia, it's ideal to water deeply but infrequently. Ensure the water penetrates at least 6 inches into the soil, mimicking a natural rain pattern. This will promote deep root growth, making the plant more drought-tolerant.

What are the symptoms of an underwatered Common sainfoin? ›

What should I do if my Common sainfoin is not getting enough water? ›

What are the symptoms of an overwatered Common sainfoin? ›

How to save an overwatered Common sainfoin? ›

What Are the Sunlight Requirements for Common sainfoin?

Sunlight Requirements: Full sun

Duration of light: 6-8 hours daily

Onobrychis viciifolia thrives in full sunlight, which significantly boosts its photosynthetic capacity and flowering potential, ensuring vigorous and healthy growth.

What is the best lighting for Onobrychis viciifolia? ›

How to ensure adequate sunlight indoors? ›

What benefits arise from ideal lighting? ›

More About Sunlight Requirements Techniques→

What Is the Ideal Temperature Range for Common sainfoin?

Ideal Temperature: 60 ~ 75℉

Onobrychis viciifolia thrives best in temperate climates where the temperature stays between 60 and 75°F. This range allows for optimal metabolic function, growth, and flowering, making it ideal for cultivating robust and healthy plants.

What Soil is Best for Common sainfoin?

Soil type: Loam, Sandy loam, Calcareous soil

Soil PH: 6.5 ~ 7.5

Onobrychis viciifolia thrives in nutrient-rich soil that offers an adequate supply of essential elements like nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. This nutrient abundance supports healthy growth, robust stems, and vibrant foliage, enhancing the plant's overall vitality. This plant prefers well-drained soil that prevents waterlogging, which can lead to root rot. Proper drainage ensures the roots receive adequate oxygen for optimal growth and nutrient absorption, promoting strong and resilient plant development. Ensuring the soil stays moderately moist but not soggy is crucial for this plant. Consistent soil moisture aids in maintaining turgidity and nutrient uptake efficiency, improving the plant's health and resistance to environmental stress.

How to Fertilize Common sainfoin?

Fertilizer type: Balanced

When it comes to the amount of fertilizer, Onobrychis viciifolia requires moderation. Use a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength, about 1 tablespoon per gallon, during its active growing season. For slow-release granules, apply at a rate of 2-3 pounds per 100 square feet annually, ensuring even distribution for consistent nutrient uptake.

How to Prune Common sainfoin?

Pruning Time: Spring, Autumn

Begin pruning Onobrychis viciifolia in early spring before new growth appears. This encourages a robust structure and prepares the plant for vibrant spring growth. A second pruning in early autumn ensures any exhausted summer foliage is removed and the plant is ready for the cooler months. Use sharp, clean shears to trim dead, damaged, or diseased stems back to healthy growth. Focus on removing overgrown or crossing branches to maintain an open center that allows better light penetration and air circulation. For a fuller plant, consider cutting back the plant by a third after blooming to stimulate bushier growth. More About Pruning Techniques→

How to Propagate Common sainfoin plant?

Propagate Time: Early spring

Fill the seed tray with fine potting soil. Ensure the soil is moist but not waterlogged to provide a suitable environment for germination.

Sprinkle Onobrychis viciifolia seeds evenly across the soil surface. Lightly press them into the soil to ensure good contact but do not cover them completely.

Keep the soil consistently moist but avoid over-watering. Use a spray bottle to mist the soil gently, ensuring delicate seedlings are not disturbed.

More About Propagating Techniques→

How to Repot Common sainfoin plant?

Repotting frequency: Every 2-3 years

Onobrychis viciifolia should be repotted when you notice its growth slowing or roots poking out from the bottom of the pot. These are clear signs that the plant needs more room to thrive. Spring and early summer are ideal times, as the plant is coming out of dormancy and preparing for its active growth phase, allowing it to recover more quickly from the shock of repotting.

Select a slightly larger pot with ample drainage holes to avoid waterlogging. The new pot should be about 2 inches wider in diameter than the old one, ensuring that the roots have enough space to grow while still providing stability for the plant. A larger pot also promotes better air circulation around the roots, aiding in healthy growth.

Opt for a well-draining sandy loam that's moderately fertile to ensure that water flows through easily without compacting. This type of soil mix will hold enough moisture to keep the plant hydrated but allow excess to drain away, which is crucial for preventing root rot and encouraging strong, healthy root formation.