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Description
Desmanthus Bicornutus, also known as Two-horned Bundleflower or Hierba de Zorra, is a perennial shrub that belongs to the Fabaceae family. It is native to the southwestern United States and northern Mexico, and it can grow up to 6 feet tall. Native Americans have long used this plant for medicinal purposes, including as a pain reliever and anesthetic.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Fabales |
| Family | Fabaceae |
| Genus | Desmanthus |
Appearance
Desmanthus Bicornutus has pinnately compound leaves that are up to 10 inches long. The leaves are green and bright, and the flowers are small, white, and clustered. The plant produces long, thin seed pods that are up to 4 inches long and contain several small, dark seeds. The plant’s stems are woody and can be either upright or sprawling.
Care Guide
Desmanthus Bicornutus thrives in well-draining soil and full sunlight. The plant is drought-tolerant, but it responds well to regular watering. Fertilizer can be applied during the growing season to promote healthy growth. The plant is hardy in zones 8-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Desmanthus Bicornutus is relatively pest- and disease-resistant, but it can be affected by spider mites, aphids, and leafhoppers. These pests can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil. The plant can also be affected by root rot and fungal diseases, which can be prevented by ensuring good drainage and avoiding overwatering.
Habitat
Desmanthus Bicornutus is native to the southwestern United States and northern Mexico, where it grows in dry, rocky habitats such as canyons and desert washes. The plant is also commonly cultivated as an ornamental plant in gardens and landscapes.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Desmanthus Bicornutus poisonous?
A: No, Desmanthus Bicornutus is not poisonous, but it is not recommended for human consumption.
Q: Can Desmanthus Bicornutus be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Desmanthus Bicornutus can be grown in containers as long as the container is large enough to accommodate the plant’s root system.
Q: Does Desmanthus Bicornutus attract pollinators?
A: Yes, Desmanthus Bicornutus attracts pollinators such as bees and butterflies.
Q: How often should I water Desmanthus Bicornutus?
A: Desmanthus Bicornutus is drought-tolerant, but it responds well to regular watering. Water the plant deeply once a week during the growing season.
Related Plants
- Desmanthus Illinoensis
- Desmanthus Velutinus
- Desmanthus Virgatus
References
- https://www.wildflower.org/plants/result.php?id_plant=DEBI4
- https://www.fs.fed.us/database/feis/plants/shrub/desbic/all.html
- https://www.cabi.org/isc/datasheet/18374
