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Description
Kummerowia is a genus of annual or perennial plants in the legume family, Fabaceae. It is native to Asia and is commonly known as the clover-like plant. It has small, white or purple flowers with a yellow center that bloom in summer and fall. Kummerowia is a popular ornamental plant due to its attractive flowers and is also grown for its high-quality hay and forage.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Fabales |
| Family | Fabaceae |
| Genus | Kummerowia |
Appearance
Kummerowia has a compact and bushy growth habit, with stems that can grow up to 2 feet tall. The leaves are trifoliate, with each leaflet being oval-shaped and up to 1 inch long. The flowers are small, about 1/4 inch in diameter, and can be white, pink, or purple in color. The fruit is a small, oblong pod that contains several seeds.
Care Guide
Kummerowia is an easy-to-grow plant that requires minimal care. Here are some tips to help you grow healthy Kummerowia plants:
- Water: Kummerowia prefers well-draining soil that is moist but not waterlogged. Water deeply once a week or when the top inch of soil feels dry.
- Fertilization: Kummerowia does not require much fertilization. Apply a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season.
- Soil: Kummerowia prefers well-draining soil that is slightly acidic to neutral. It can tolerate poor soil conditions and is often grown in sandy or rocky soils.
- Sunlight: Kummerowia prefers full sun but can tolerate partial shade.
- Hardiness Zones: Kummerowia is hardy in USDA zones 4-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Kummerowia is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, it can be susceptible to leaf spot and root rot if grown in poorly drained soil. It can also attract aphids, spider mites, and whiteflies, which can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Habitat
Kummerowia is native to Asia and is found in meadows, open woods, and along roadsides. It can tolerate a wide range of soil types and is often grown in poor soil conditions.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Kummerowia a good plant for erosion control?
A: Yes, Kummerowia has a deep root system that makes it an effective plant for erosion control.
Q: Can Kummerowia be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Kummerowia can be grown in containers as long as the soil is well-draining and the container is large enough to accommodate the plant’s root system.
Q: How often should I fertilize Kummerowia?
A: Kummerowia does not require much fertilization. Apply a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season.
Q: How do I propagate Kummerowia?
A: Kummerowia can be propagated by seed or by dividing established plants in the spring.
Related Plants
- Trifolium pratense (Red Clover)
- Medicago sativa (Alfalfa)
- Lotus corniculatus (Bird’s Foot Trefoil)
- Trifolium repens (White Clover)
References
- Missouri Botanical Garden: Kummerowia striata
- University of Wisconsin-Madison Division of Extension: Kummerowia striata
- USDA Plants Database: Kummerowia striata
