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Description
Desmodium Marilandicum, commonly known as Maryland tick-trefoil, is a perennial plant that belongs to the Fabaceae family. It is native to North America and can grow up to 3 feet tall. The plant has a slender stem that is covered in fine hairs and produces small pink flowers that bloom from June to August. The leaves are trifoliate, meaning they have three leaflets, and are arranged alternately on the stem. Desmodium Marilandicum is a hardy plant that can tolerate different soil types and weather conditions.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Angiospermae |
| Order | Fabales |
| Family | Fabaceae |
| Genus | Desmodium |
Appearance
Desmodium Marilandicum has a slender stem that grows up to 3 feet tall and is covered in fine hairs. The plant produces small pink flowers that bloom from June to August. The leaves are trifoliate, meaning they have three leaflets, and are arranged alternately on the stem. The leaflets are oval-shaped and have a pointed tip. The top of the leaf is dark green, while the underside is lighter in color. The plant has a fibrous root system and can spread through rhizomes.
Care Guide
Desmodium Marilandicum is a hardy plant that can tolerate different soil types and weather conditions. Here are some tips on how to care for this plant:- Water: Water the plant regularly, especially during dry periods. Make sure the soil is moist but not waterlogged.- Fertilization: Fertilize the plant in the spring with a balanced fertilizer. Follow the instructions on the package for application rates.- Soil: The plant can grow in different soil types, but it prefers well-drained soil. Mix compost or organic matter into the soil before planting to improve soil fertility and drainage.- Sunlight: The plant can grow in full sun to partial shade. However, it prefers partial shade in hot climates.- Hardiness Zones: Desmodium Marilandicum can grow in USDA hardiness zones 4 to 9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Desmodium Marilandicum is not susceptible to many pests and diseases. However, here are some common issues to look out for:- Aphids: These are small insects that feed on the plant’s sap. They can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil.- Spider mites: These are tiny insects that can cause yellowing and wilting of the leaves. They can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil.- Powdery mildew: This is a fungal disease that can cause a white powdery coating on the plant’s leaves. It can be controlled with a fungicide.
Habitat
Desmodium Marilandicum is native to North America and can be found in various habitats, including meadows, woodland edges, and roadsides. It prefers partial shade and well-drained soil.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Desmodium Marilandicum be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Desmodium Marilandicum can be grown in containers. Make sure the container has drainage holes and use a well-draining potting mix.
Q: How often should I fertilize Desmodium Marilandicum?
A: Fertilize the plant in the spring with a balanced fertilizer. Follow the instructions on the package for application rates.
Q: Can Desmodium Marilandicum tolerate drought?
A: Desmodium Marilandicum can tolerate some drought, but it prefers moist soil. Water the plant regularly, especially during dry periods.
Q: How do I propagate Desmodium Marilandicum?
A: Desmodium Marilandicum can be propagated through division or by seed. Divide the plant in the spring or fall, or sow seeds in the spring.
Related Plants
– Desmodium Canadense- Desmodium Pinnatum- Desmodium Rotundifolium- Desmodium Tortuosum
References
– “Desmodium Marilandicum (L.) DC.” Plants of the World Online. Kew Science, n.d. Web. 6 May 2021.- “Desmodium Marilandicum.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Missouri Botanical Garden, n.d. Web. 6 May 2021.- “Maryland Tick-Trefoil.” Illinois Wildflowers. John Hilty, n.d. Web. 6 May 2021.
