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Description
Desmodium Intortum, also known as Mealy Desmodium, is a perennial herbaceous plant that belongs to the Fabaceae family. It is native to the tropical regions of Africa and Asia, but it has also been introduced to other parts of the world. The plant can grow up to 2 meters tall and has a sprawling growth habit. It has a deep taproot system and is known for its ability to fix nitrogen in the soil. The leaves are trifoliate, with each leaflet being oval or lanceolate in shape. The flowers are purple or pink in color and are arranged in clusters. The plant produces small, flat, and oblong pods that contain seeds.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Fabales |
| Family | Fabaceae |
| Genus | Desmodium |
| Species | Intortum |
Appearance
Desmodium Intortum is a sprawling plant that can grow up to 2 meters tall. The leaves are trifoliate, with each leaflet measuring up to 7 cm long and 4 cm wide. The leaves are green and smooth on the upper surface, while the lower surface is pubescent. The flowers are pink or purple in color and are arranged in clusters at the end of the branches. The flowers are about 1 cm long and have a five-lobed calyx and corolla. The pods are small, flat, and oblong, measuring about 2 cm long and 0.5 cm wide.
Care Guide
Desmodium Intortum is a low-maintenance plant that requires minimal care. It can be grown in a variety of soil types, but it prefers well-drained soils that are rich in organic matter. The plant should be watered regularly, but care should be taken not to overwater it. The plant does not require regular fertilization, but a balanced fertilizer can be applied once a year to promote growth. The plant prefers full sun but can tolerate partial shade. It is hardy in USDA zones 9-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Desmodium Intortum is not known to be highly susceptible to pests or diseases. However, it can be affected by root rot if it is grown in poorly drained soils. The plant can also be attacked by mealybugs, spider mites, and aphids. These pests can be controlled by spraying the plant with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Habitat
Desmodium Intortum is native to the tropical regions of Africa and Asia. It is commonly found in open grasslands, forests, and along riverbanks. The plant has been introduced to other parts of the world, including South America and the Caribbean.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Desmodium Intortum a good plant for erosion control?
A: Yes, Desmodium Intortum is a good plant for erosion control due to its deep taproot system and ability to fix nitrogen in the soil.
Q: Can Desmodium Intortum be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Desmodium Intortum can be grown in containers as long as they are large enough to accommodate the plant’s sprawling growth habit.
Q: Is Desmodium Intortum an invasive species?
A: No, Desmodium Intortum is not considered an invasive species in most parts of the world.
Q: Can Desmodium Intortum be used for medicinal purposes?
A: Yes, Desmodium Intortum has been used in traditional medicine to treat a variety of ailments, including respiratory infections and digestive problems.
Related Plants
- Desmodium Adscendens
- Desmodium Gangeticum
- Desmodium Heterocarpon
- Desmodium Velutinum
References
- https://www.feedipedia.org/node/389
- https://plants.usda.gov/plantguide/pdf/pg_dein.pdf
- https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4873644/
- https://www.nrcs.usda.gov/Internet/FSE_PLANTMATERIALS/publications/mdpmcfs1878.pdf
