(Lotus corniculatus), perennial, spreading herbaceous plant, of the pea family (Fabaceae), native to Europe and Asia but introduced to other regions. Often used as forage for cattle, it is occasionally a troublesome weed. The stem grows to about 60 cm (2 feet) long. The leaves consist of three rather oval leaflets, broadest near the tip. The flowers, about 2 cm (0.8 inches) wide, are yellow, sometimes tinged with red, and grow in clusters of 5 to 10.