Status:
valid
Authors:
Benth.
Source:
ildis
Year:
1859
Citation Micro:
C.F.P.von Martius & auct. suc. (eds.), Fl. Bras.15(1): 100 (1859)
WFO Identifier:
wfo-0000170344
Common Names
- Platycarpum Ticktrefoil
- Platycarpum Desmodium
- Platycarpum Beggarweed
Synonyms
- Meibomia platycarpa Kuntze [valid]
Description
Desmodium platycarpum (also called Flat-Fruited Desmodium, among many other common names) is an annual herb that is native to Mexico. It has long, thin stems and small, white flowers. It grows in dry, well-drained soils in open woodlands and along roadsides.
Uses & Benefits
Desmodium platycarpum is used as a forage crop for livestock, as a green manure crop, and as a soil-improving crop. It is also used as a medicinal plant, for its anti-inflammatory and anti-bacterial properties.
Flower, Seeds and Seedlings
The flower of Desmodium platycarpum is a small, purple, pea-like flower. The seed is a small, round, dark brown seed. The seedlings are small, thin, and have a few leaves.
Cultivation and Propagation
Desmodium platycarpum is a perennial herb that grows best in full sun and well-drained soil. It can be propagated by seed or cuttings. When planting, make sure to space the plants at least 6 inches apart to allow for adequate air circulation. Water the plants regularly and fertilize them with a balanced fertilizer every few weeks.
Where to Find Desmodium platycarpum
Desmodium platycarpum is native to the United States and can be found in the eastern and central parts of the country. It is a perennial herb that grows in moist soils and is often found in wet meadows, marshes, and along streams.
Desmodium platycarpum FAQ
What is the scientific name of Desmodium platycarpum?
Desmodium platycarpum
What is the family of Desmodium platycarpum?
Fabaceae
What is the common name of Desmodium platycarpum?
Broad-fruited Tick-trefoil
Species in the Desmodium genus
Desmodium affine,
Desmodium ambiguum,
Desmodium amplifolium,
Desmodium angustatum,
Desmodium angustifolium,
Desmodium arechavaletae,
Desmodium arizonicum,
Desmodium batocaulon,
Desmodium bellum,
Desmodium bioculatum,
Desmodium bridgesii,
Desmodium callilepis,
Desmodium campyloclados,
Desmodium canaliculatum,
Desmodium chartaceum,
Desmodium chiapense,
Desmodium cinerascens,
Desmodium coloniense,
Desmodium conzattii,
Desmodium cordistipulum,
Desmodium crassum,
Desmodium cubense,
Desmodium cuneatum,
Desmodium delotum,
Desmodium densiflorum,
Desmodium denudatum,
Desmodium fernaldii,
Desmodium floridanum,
Desmodium foliosum,
Desmodium ghiesbreghtii,
Desmodium glabrescens,
Desmodium gracile,
Desmodium grahamii,
Desmodium guadalajaranum,
Desmodium hartwegianum,
Desmodium hassleri,
Desmodium helleri,
Desmodium illinoense,
Desmodium infractum,
Desmodium intermedium,
Desmodium jaliscanum,
Desmodium johnstonii,
Desmodium lamprocarpum,
Desmodium lavanduliflorum,
Desmodium leptoclados,
Desmodium limense,
Desmodium lindheimeri,
Desmodium longiarticulatum,
Desmodium luteolum,
Desmodium macrodesmum,
Species in the Fabaceae family