Contents
Description
Desmodium Velutinum, commonly known as velvet leaf, is a flowering plant that belongs to the Fabaceae family. It is native to tropical and subtropical regions of Africa and Asia. This plant has medicinal properties and is used to treat various health issues such as fever, cough, and dysentery. It is a perennial plant and can grow up to 1.5 meters in height. The leaves are green and have a velvety texture. The flowers are pink or purple in color and bloom in late summer. The fruit is a pod that contains seeds.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Fabales |
| Family | Fabaceae |
| Genus | Desmodium |
Appearance
Desmodium Velutinum has green leaves that are covered in tiny hairs, giving them a velvety texture. The leaves are pinnate and can be up to 15 cm in length. The flowers are pink or purple in color and bloom in late summer. They are arranged in clusters on the stem and are about 1 cm in length. The fruit is a pod that contains small seeds. The plant can grow up to 1.5 meters in height and has a bushy appearance.
Care Guide
Desmodium Velutinum is a hardy plant that is easy to grow. Here are some care tips:
- Water: Water the plant regularly, making sure the soil is moist but not waterlogged.
- Fertilization: Fertilize the plant once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.
- Soil: The plant prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.
- Sunlight: The plant prefers partial shade to full sun.
- Hardiness Zones: Desmodium Velutinum is hardy in USDA zones 9 to 11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Desmodium Velutinum is generally free from pests and diseases. However, it can be affected by the following:
- Aphids: These small insects can suck the sap from the plant, causing stunted growth and yellowing leaves. Use insecticidal soap to control them.
- Spider mites: These tiny insects can cause webbing and yellowing leaves. Use neem oil or insecticidal soap to control them.
- Powdery mildew: This fungal disease can cause a white powdery coating on the leaves. Use a fungicide to control it.
Habitat
Desmodium Velutinum is native to tropical and subtropical regions of Africa and Asia. It prefers moist, well-draining soil and partial shade to full sun. It can be found growing in forests, grasslands, and along riverbanks.
Question and Answer
Q: What are the medicinal properties of Desmodium Velutinum?
A: Desmodium Velutinum is used to treat various health issues such as fever, cough, and dysentery. It has anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and antioxidant properties.
Q: What is the hardiness zone for Desmodium Velutinum?
A: Desmodium Velutinum is hardy in USDA zones 9 to 11.
Q: How often should I fertilize Desmodium Velutinum?
A: Fertilize the plant once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.
Q: What pests and diseases can affect Desmodium Velutinum?
A: Desmodium Velutinum can be affected by aphids, spider mites, and powdery mildew.
Related Plants
- Desmodium Adscendens
- Desmodium Gangeticum
- Desmodium Incarnatum
- Desmodium Heterophyllum
References
- “Desmodium Velutinum (Willd.) DC. – Plants of the World Online – Kew Science”. Plants of the World Online. Retrieved 2021-09-15.
- “Desmodium Velutinum – Velvet Leaf – Tropilab Inc”. www.tropilab.net. Retrieved 2021-09-15.
- “Desmodium velutinum (Willd.) DC. | Plants of the World Online | JSTOR Plant Science”. plants.jstor.org. Retrieved 2021-09-15.
