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Description
Desmodium Grahamii is a perennial herbaceous plant that belongs to the family Fabaceae. It is commonly known as Graham’s tick clover and is native to North America. The plant is known for its ability to fix nitrogen in the soil and is often used in soil conservation efforts. It has several medicinal properties and is used to treat various ailments.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Fabales |
| Family | Fabaceae |
| Genus | Desmodium |
Appearance
Desmodium Grahamii grows up to 3 feet tall and 2 feet wide. It has a slender stem with small, oval-shaped leaves. The leaves are dark green in color and have a slightly hairy texture. The plant produces small, pink, and white flowers that bloom in late summer and early fall. The flowers are arranged in clusters that grow from the leaf axils. The plant produces small seed pods that contain several seeds.
Care Guide
Desmodium Grahamii is an easy-to-grow plant that requires minimal care. It prefers well-drained soil and partial shade. Here are some care tips to ensure the plant thrives:
Water: Water the plant regularly, but avoid overwatering as it can lead to root rot.
Fertilization: Fertilize the plant once a month using a balanced fertilizer during the growing season.
Soil: The plant prefers well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. Amend the soil with compost before planting.
Sunlight: The plant prefers partial shade but can tolerate full sun in cooler climates.
Hardiness Zones: Desmodium Grahamii is hardy in USDA zones 5 to 9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Desmodium Grahamii is relatively pest and disease-free. However, it can be affected by spider mites, aphids, and powdery mildew. Here are some ways to prevent and treat common pests and diseases:
Spider mites: Spray the plant with a mixture of water and insecticidal soap to control spider mites.
Aphids: Spray the plant with a mixture of water and neem oil to control aphids.
Powdery mildew: Remove infected leaves and spray the plant with a mixture of water and baking soda to control powdery mildew.
Habitat
Desmodium Grahamii is native to North America and can be found in various habitats, including grasslands, woodlands, and savannas. It prefers well-drained soil and partial shade.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Desmodium Grahamii a medicinal plant?
A: Yes, Desmodium Grahamii has several medicinal properties and is used to treat various ailments, including respiratory infections and fever.
Q: How often should I water Desmodium Grahamii?
A: Water the plant regularly, but avoid overwatering as it can lead to root rot.
Q: Can Desmodium Grahamii tolerate full sun?
A: The plant prefers partial shade but can tolerate full sun in cooler climates.
Q: What is the hardiness zone for Desmodium Grahamii?
A: Desmodium Grahamii is hardy in USDA zones 5 to 9.
Related Plants
Here are some related plants to Desmodium Grahamii:
- Desmodium Canadense
- Desmodium Cinereum
- Desmodium Gyrans
- Desmodium Illinoense
- Desmodium Paniculatum
References
- “Desmodium Grahamii.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=c581.
- “Desmodium Grahamii.” Plants of the World Online, www.powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:50602-2.
- “Desmodium Grahamii.” USDA Plants Database, plants.usda.gov/core/profile?symbol=DEGR5.
