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Description
Desmodium Lineatum, commonly known as tick-trefoil, is a species of flowering plant belonging to the family Fabaceae. This herbaceous perennial plant is native to North America, where it thrives in dry and sandy soils. It is known for its nitrogen-fixing properties, which make it an ideal plant for soil improvement in areas where other plants struggle to grow.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Fabales |
| Family | Fabaceae |
| Genus | Desmodium |
Appearance
Desmodium Lineatum grows up to 3 feet tall and 2 feet wide. It has a slender stem that is covered with fine hairs and small, dark green leaves that are arranged in threes. The leaves are elongated and have a pointed tip. The plant produces small, pink or purple flowers that bloom from June to September. The flowers are arranged in a spike-like cluster and give way to small, narrow seed pods that split open when ripe.
Care Guide
Desmodium Lineatum is a low-maintenance plant that thrives in well-draining soil. Here are some care tips to help your Desmodium Lineatum grow healthy and strong:
Water: Water your Desmodium Lineatum once a week during the growing season. Allow the soil to dry out slightly between waterings.
Fertilization: Desmodium Lineatum does not require fertilization, but you can apply a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season if you want to promote growth.
Soil: Desmodium Lineatum prefers well-draining soil that is slightly acidic. It can tolerate sandy, loamy, or clay soils.
Sunlight: Desmodium Lineatum prefers full sun but can also grow in partial shade.
Hardiness Zones: Desmodium Lineatum is hardy in USDA zones 3 to 8.
Common Pests & Diseases
Desmodium Lineatum is generally pest and disease-resistant, but it can occasionally be affected by spider mites or leaf spot. Spider mites can be controlled by spraying the plant with water or insecticidal soap. Leaf spot can be prevented by avoiding overhead watering and providing good air circulation.
Habitat
Desmodium Lineatum is native to North America, where it is found in dry, sandy areas, such as prairies, open woodlands, and roadsides. It can also be found in disturbed areas, such as abandoned fields and along railroad tracks.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Desmodium Lineatum a good plant for soil improvement?
A: Yes, Desmodium Lineatum is known for its nitrogen-fixing properties, which make it an ideal plant for soil improvement in areas where other plants struggle to grow.
Q: What is the ideal growing condition for Desmodium Lineatum?
A: Desmodium Lineatum prefers well-draining soil that is slightly acidic, full sun, and USDA zones 3 to 8.
Q: What are the common pests and diseases that affect Desmodium Lineatum?
A: Desmodium Lineatum is generally pest and disease-resistant, but it can occasionally be affected by spider mites or leaf spot.
Q: Can Desmodium Lineatum tolerate partial shade?
A: Yes, Desmodium Lineatum can tolerate partial shade, but it prefers full sun.
Related Plants
Here are some related plants to Desmodium Lineatum:
- Desmodium Canadense
- Desmodium Dillenii
- Desmodium Gyrans
- Desmodium Paniculatum
- Desmodium Purpureum
References
- USDA Plants Database. (n.d.). Desmodium Lineatum. Retrieved from https://plants.usda.gov/core/profile?symbol=DELIL
- Missouri Botanical Garden. (n.d.). Desmodium Lineatum. Retrieved from https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=b418
- Illinois Wildflowers. (n.d.). Desmodium Lineatum. Retrieved from https://www.illinoiswildflowers.info/prairie/plantx/ticklf_x.htm
