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Description
Desmodium Rotundifolium, also known as prostrate tick-trefoil or roundleaf tick-trefoil, is a low-growing perennial herb that is native to North America. It belongs to the Fabaceae family and is commonly found in dry, sandy soils of fields, meadows, and roadsides. The plant has a creeping habit and can spread up to 2 feet wide. Its stems are slender and hairy, and it produces small, pinkish-purple flowers in the late summer to fall.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Fabales |
| Family | Fabaceae |
| Genus | Desmodium |
Appearance
Desmodium Rotundifolium has a prostrate growth habit and can grow up to 12 inches in height. It has slender stems that can grow up to 2 feet long and are covered in fine hairs. The leaves of the plant are rounded or oval-shaped, and they have three leaflets that are each up to 1 inch long. The leaves are also covered in fine hairs and have a slightly rough texture.During the late summer to fall, Desmodium Rotundifolium produces small, pinkish-purple flowers that are arranged in clusters on the stems. The flowers are about 1/4 inch long and have a sweet fragrance.
Care Guide
Desmodium Rotundifolium is a relatively low-maintenance plant that requires minimal care. Here are some tips on how to care for this plant:Water: Water the plant regularly, especially during dry periods. However, be careful not to overwater the plant, as it prefers well-draining soil.Fertilization: Fertilize the plant once a year in the spring with a balanced fertilizer.Soil: Desmodium Rotundifolium prefers well-draining soil that is slightly acidic.Sunlight: The plant prefers full sun to partial shade.Hardiness Zones: Desmodium Rotundifolium is hardy in USDA zones 4-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Desmodium Rotundifolium is relatively resistant to pests and diseases. However, it can be susceptible to root rot if the soil is too moist. In addition, the plant can be affected by spider mites and aphids, which can be treated with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Habitat
Desmodium Rotundifolium is native to North America and is commonly found in dry, sandy soils of fields, meadows, and roadsides. It prefers well-draining soil and can tolerate drought conditions.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Desmodium Rotundifolium a good plant for ground cover?
A: Yes, Desmodium Rotundifolium is a good plant for ground cover due to its prostrate growth habit and ability to spread.Q: Does Desmodium Rotundifolium attract pollinators?
A: Yes, Desmodium Rotundifolium’s flowers are attractive to pollinators such as bees and butterflies.Q: Can Desmodium Rotundifolium be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Desmodium Rotundifolium can be grown in containers as long as the soil is well-draining and the plant receives adequate sunlight.Q: How often should Desmodium Rotundifolium be fertilized?
A: Desmodium Rotundifolium should be fertilized once a year in the spring with a balanced fertilizer.
Related Plants
Here are some related plants to Desmodium Rotundifolium:- Desmodium Canadense- Desmodium Cinereum- Desmodium Dillenii- Desmodium Gyrans- Desmodium Illinoense
References
– “Desmodium rotundifolium.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=g600.- “Desmodium rotundifolium.” Illinois Wildflowers, www.illinoiswildflowers.info/prairie/plantx/rd_tick-trefoilx.htm.- “Desmodium rotundifolium.” Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center, www.wildflower.org/plants/result.php?id_plant=dero2.
