Contents
Description
Desmodium Sessilifolium, also known as prostrate tick-trefoil, is a herbaceous perennial plant that belongs to the Fabaceae family. It is native to Asia and found throughout India, China, and Southeast Asia. It has a trailing growth habit and can grow up to 60 cm long. The leaves are trifoliate, and the flowers are pinkish-purple and bloom from June to September. The fruit is a pod that contains small seeds.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Fabales |
| Family | Fabaceae |
| Genus | Desmodium |
Appearance
Desmodium Sessilifolium has a low-growing, creeping habit and can spread up to 60 cm. The leaves are trifoliate, with obovate leaflets that are about 1-3 cm long. They are dark green on the upper surface and paler beneath. The flowers are pinkish-purple and grow in clusters of 4-12. They bloom from June to September. The fruit is a pod that contains small seeds.
Care Guide
Water: Desmodium Sessilifolium prefers moist soil but can tolerate periods of drought once established. Water the plant regularly, especially during hot, dry weather.
Fertilization: Desmodium Sessilifolium does not require frequent fertilization. Apply a balanced fertilizer once a year in the spring.
Soil: Desmodium Sessilifolium prefers well-drained, fertile soil. It can tolerate a range of soil types, including loamy, sandy, and clay soils.
Sunlight: Desmodium Sessilifolium prefers partial shade to full sun. It can tolerate full shade but may not bloom as well.
Hardiness Zones: Desmodium Sessilifolium is hardy in USDA zones 5-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Desmodium Sessilifolium is generally pest and disease resistant. However, it may be susceptible to root rot in poorly drained soil. Avoid overwatering and improve soil drainage to prevent root rot.
Habitat
Desmodium Sessilifolium is native to Asia and found throughout India, China, and Southeast Asia. It grows in a variety of habitats, including grasslands, open woodlands, and disturbed areas. It is often found growing along roadsides and in pastures.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Desmodium Sessilifolium an invasive species?
A: No, Desmodium Sessilifolium is not considered an invasive species.
Q: Can Desmodium Sessilifolium be grown in a container?
A: Yes, Desmodium Sessilifolium can be grown in a container. Use a well-draining potting mix and ensure the pot has drainage holes.
Q: How often should I prune Desmodium Sessilifolium?
A: Desmodium Sessilifolium does not require frequent pruning. However, you can trim back the plant after flowering to promote bushier growth.
Q: Can Desmodium Sessilifolium be used as a ground cover?
A: Yes, Desmodium Sessilifolium can be used as a ground cover. Its low-growing habit and spreading growth make it ideal for covering large areas.
Related Plants
- Desmodium Canadense
- Desmodium Gyrans
- Desmodium Incarnatum
- Desmodium Intortum
References
- “Desmodium Sessilifolium (L.) DC.” Plants of the World Online, Kew Science.
- “Prostrate Tick-Trefoil.” Missouri Botanical Garden.
- “Desmodium Sessilifolium.” Flora of China.
