SafePlants

Illinois Bundleflower (Desmanthus illinoensis)

Also known as Prairie Mimosa, Bundleflower, Illinois Bundle Weed, Prickleweed, and Illinois Desmanthus, the Illinois Bundleflower is a native perennial with a fascinating history and ecological role.

Considerations for Pets

• This plant is sometimes referred to as "Prickleweed."
• The plant produces seed pods that may be of interest to animals.

Considerations for Children

• This plant is sometimes referred to as "Prickleweed."
• The plant produces seed pods that may be of interest to children.

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

• Scientific Name: Desmanthus illinoensis
• Common Names: Illinois Bundleflower, Prairie Mimosa, Bundleflower, Illinois Bundle Weed, Prickleweed, Illinois Desmanthus, Prairie Bundleflower, Illinois Mimosa
• Family: Mimosaceae (Mimosa Family) or Fabaceae (Legume Family), Order Fabales
• Synonyms: Not explicitly stated, but variants like "Illinois Bundle Weed" and "Prairie Mimosa" are used.
• Desmanthus illinoensis leptolobus is a noted taxonomic rank.

Distribution and Habitat

• Native to the central and eastern regions of the United States, extending from Mexico.
• Found in prairies, thickets, glades, and rocky areas.
• Occurs in all of Texas, except for far west Texas, specifically in prairie remnants and railroad rights-of-way.

Morphological Characteristics and Growth Habits

• Herbaceous perennial plant growing to 2-4 feet tall (up to 4' or 1.3m).
• Bushy and smooth in texture.
• Erect, branched, and bushy stems with angled, glabrous or sparingly hairy branches, longitudinally grooved.
• Alternate leaves, 2-4 inches long, with many tiny, lance-shaped leaflets, creating a doubly compound, fernlike appearance.
• Small, white flowers crowded into round, fuzzy clusters, appearing from June through August. Flowers are somewhat inconspicuous and 1" wide.
• Produces bundles of twisted, bean-like seed pods.
• Deep-rooted perennial that grows readily from seed.

Ecological Role

• Nitrogen-fixing legume, enriching the soil.
• Provides nutrition for wildlife; seeds are a favorite food of birds and deer.
• Important food source for wildlife.
• Attracts pollinators, especially butterflies and native bees.

Quirky Facts

• Some sources indicate that Desmanthus illinoensis contains DMT (Dimethyltryptamine) in its root bark and is used as an anahuasca additive.
• Illinois Bundleflower has been used by Native Americans to alleviate symptoms of cold and flu.

Uses

• Recommended for use in range seedings and for wildlife food and cover.
• Seeds can be directly started outdoors in a prepared seedbed.

Genetic and Cytological Information

• Mention of "two distinct races" exists, with the less common race possessing greater genetic diversity.

Interactions with Other Organisms

• Rhizobium giardinii is identified as the microsymbiont of Desmanthus illinoensis.

Further Information

• USDA PLANTS Database: http://plants.usda.gov/java/nameSearch
• Vanderbilt University Images: http://www.cas.vanderbilt.edu/bioimages/species/deil.htm
• Dave's Garden: Mentions a community for sharing gardening tips and ideas.