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Description
Desmodium Sequax is a perennial legume that belongs to the Fabaceae family. It is native to the United States and can be found in various regions, including the Southeastern Coastal Plain, the Gulf Coastal Plain, and the Piedmont. This plant is commonly known as the “northern tick-trefoil” due to its seeds’ resemblance to ticks.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Fabales |
| Family | Fabaceae |
| Genus | Desmodium |
Appearance
Desmodium Sequax grows up to 3 feet tall and spreads up to 2 feet wide. It has hairy stems, leaves, and seed pods. The leaves are trifoliate and elliptic. The flowers are pink, purple, or white and bloom from June to September. The seeds are small, brown, and flattened.
Care Guide
Desmodium Sequax thrives in well-drained soils with a pH range of 6.0 to 7.5. It prefers full sun to partial shade and requires moderate watering. It is tolerant to drought and can survive in hardiness zones 6 to 9. Fertilize the plant with a balanced fertilizer in the spring and fall.
Common Pests & Diseases
Desmodium Sequax is relatively pest and disease-free. However, it is susceptible to root rot in poorly drained soils.
Habitat
Desmodium Sequax grows in a variety of habitats, including pine forests, oak woodlands, and prairies. It is commonly found in disturbed areas such as roadsides, pastures, and abandoned fields.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Desmodium Sequax an invasive species?
A: No, Desmodium Sequax is not considered an invasive species. It is a native plant that provides valuable forage for wildlife.
Q: Can Desmodium Sequax be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Desmodium Sequax can be grown in containers as long as the container is large enough to accommodate its roots.
Q: Does Desmodium Sequax attract pollinators?
A: Yes, Desmodium Sequax attracts bees and butterflies with its colorful flowers.
Q: How often should I fertilize Desmodium Sequax?
A: Fertilize Desmodium Sequax with a balanced fertilizer in the spring and fall.
Related Plants
- Desmodium Canadense
- Desmodium Dillenii
- Desmodium Gyrans
- Desmodium Tortuosum
References
- USDA Plants Database. (n.d.). Desmodium Sequax. Retrieved from https://plants.usda.gov/core/profile?symbol=DESE2
- University of Florida IFAS Extension. (n.d.). Desmodium Sequax. Retrieved from https://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/fp617
- Natural Resources Conservation Service. (n.d.). Plant Profile for Desmodium Sequax. Retrieved from https://plants.usda.gov/plantprofile/pdf/cs_dese2.pdf
