SafePlants

Asian Ticktrefoil (Desmodium heterocarpon)

Desmodium heterocarpon, commonly known as Asian Ticktrefoil, is a subshrub or shrub belonging to the genus Desmodium.

Considerations for Pets

• The common name "Ticktrefoil" suggests the plant might produce seeds or parts that could attach to fur.

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

• Scientific Name: Desmodium heterocarpon (L.) DC.
• Common Names: Asian Ticktrefoil, Asian Tick Trefoil, Carpon Desmodium, tick trefoil, tickclover
• Family: Implied to be part of the Desmodium genus within the plant kingdom.
• Varieties: Desmodium heterocarpon var. strigosum van Meeuwen
• Synonyms: Desmodium buergeri Miq., Desmodium buergeri var. patulepilosum Ohwi, Hedysarum triflorum L., Poir Dc Hedysarum tuberculosum Labill Desmodium trichocaulon Dc Desmodium trichocaulum orth var Dc sensu Candolle, ALP de 1825

Distribution and Habitat

• Found in northern Australia from near sea level to 500m.
• Also occurs in Africa, Asia, Malesia, and the Pacific islands.
• Likely native to Asia, with mentions of East Asia.

Morphological Characteristics

• Perennial subshrub or shrub.
• Ascending undershrub with creeping rootstock.
• Branches are adpressed hairy.
• Leaves are 3-foliolate, with leaflets measuring 1.5-4 x 1-2.2.
• Can reach a height of 1.8 m.
• Habit can be erect, ascendent, decumbent, or subclimbing.

Ecological Role

• Mentioned in the context of invasive species like Yellow toadflax and Asian bittersweet. The text implies that Asian Ticktrefoil itself might be naturalized outside of its native range.

Traditional Uses

• In East Asia, it has been used for treating fevers, ulcers, ringworm, and scabies.

Quirky Facts

• Asian Ticktrefoil is sometimes called "False Ground Nut" due to its resemblance to the peanut plant (Arachis hypogaea).
• Leaves from Tick Trefoil trees can make up to 50% of goats' diets.

Further Information

• Dave's Garden is mentioned as a resource for tips and ideas related to gardens, seeds, and plants.