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Description
Desmodium Heterophyllum, commonly known as Tick Trefoil, is a perennial flowering plant belonging to the Fabaceae family. It is native to Asia, particularly in India, where it is widely used in Ayurvedic medicine. The plant has a long history of medicinal use and is recognized for its various therapeutic properties.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Fabales |
| Family | Fabaceae |
| Genus | Desmodium |
Appearance
The plant has a bushy growth habit and can grow up to 60 cm in height. It has trifoliate leaves, with leaflets that are variable in shape and size. The flowers are pink or purple in color, arranged in dense racemes, and bloom from July to September. The fruit is a pod that contains several small seeds.
Care Guide
Desmodium Heterophyllum is a low maintenance plant that requires minimal care. Here are some tips for taking care of this plant:
- Water: The plant prefers moist but well-drained soil. Water it regularly, especially during dry spells.
- Fertilization: Fertilize the plant once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.
- Soil: The plant prefers a fertile, well-drained soil that is slightly acidic.
- Sunlight: The plant prefers partial shade to full sun.
- Hardiness Zones: The plant is hardy in USDA zones 5-10.
Common Pests & Diseases
Desmodium Heterophyllum is generally not susceptible to many pests and diseases. However, some common problems that may affect the plant include:
- Aphids: These sap-sucking insects can cause stunted growth and distorted leaves. Use insecticidal soap or neem oil to control them.
- Spider Mites: These tiny pests can cause yellowing leaves and webbing. Use neem oil or insecticidal soap to control them.
- Fungal Diseases: These diseases can cause leaf spots, root rot, and stem cankers. Ensure proper drainage and air circulation to prevent fungal diseases.
Habitat
Desmodium Heterophyllum is native to Asia and can be found growing in grasslands, open forests, and disturbed areas. It prefers moist, well-drained soil and partial shade to full sun.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Desmodium Heterophyllum a medicinal plant?
A: Yes, Desmodium Heterophyllum has a long history of medicinal use and is recognized for its various therapeutic properties.
Q: What is the hardiness zone for Desmodium Heterophyllum?
A: Desmodium Heterophyllum is hardy in USDA zones 5-10.
Q: Is Desmodium Heterophyllum easy to care for?
A: Yes, Desmodium Heterophyllum is a low maintenance plant that requires minimal care.
Q: What are the common pests and diseases that may affect Desmodium Heterophyllum?
A: The common pests and diseases that may affect Desmodium Heterophyllum include aphids, spider mites, and fungal diseases.
Related Plants
- Desmodium Canadense
- Desmodium Gyrans
- Desmodium Intortum
- Desmodium Motorium
References
- “Desmodium Heterophyllum – Useful Tropical Plants.” Useful Tropical Plants, http://tropical.theferns.info/viewtropical.php?id=Desmodium+heterophyllum.
- “Desmodium Heterophyllum (L.) DC. | Plants of the World Online | Kew Science.” Plants of the World Online, http://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:501286-1.
