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nakedflower ticktrefoil

Scientific Name: Desmodium nudiflorum

Family: Fabaceae

Category: Dicot

Growth: Forb/herb

Duration: Perennial

Other Names:

       

Nakedflower Ticktrefoil (Desmodium nudiflorum)

The Nakedflower Ticktrefoil, scientifically known as Desmodium nudiflorum, is a perennial wildflower belonging to the Fabaceae (Pea) family. It is also commonly referred to as naked-flowered tick trefoil, naked-stemmed tick clover, and bare stemmed tick trefoil.

Considerations for Pets

  • The plant produces flowers on a long spike, typically 2 to 3 feet long.
  • The plant is also known as beggar's-ticks, potentially indicating seed dispersal via attachment to fur.

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

  • Scientific Name: Desmodium nudiflorum (L.) DC.
  • Family: Fabaceae (Pea Family)
  • Kingdom: Plantae
  • Taxonomic Rank: Species
  • Synonyms:
    • Meibomia nudiflora (L.) Kuntze
    • Meibomia
    • Hylodesmum nudiflorum (Linnaeus) Ohashi &amp R.R.

Distribution and Habitat

Desmodium nudiflorum is found in most of the eastern United States. It thrives in dry to moist habitats.

  • Specific locations mentioned include Calvert Co., Maryland; Lucketts, Loudoun County, Virginia; Clark State Forest, Clark County, Indiana; and Bullitt County.
  • It has been found in Alabama, Maine, New Hampshire, Vermont, Massachusetts, Connecticut, and Rhode Island.

Morphological Characteristics

  • This perennial wildflower consists of a short leafy stem (4-12 inches tall) and a flowering stalk (1-3 feet long) that are separated from each other at the base.
  • Flowers form on a long spike, devoid of leaves.
  • Flower shape is typical of legumes, pale pink with dark 'eye spots'.
  • Flower Arrangement: Raceme
  • Plant Form: Herb

Traditional Uses

  • The Cherokee used an infusion of the plant as an analgesic.

Quirky Facts

  • The common name "ticktrefoil" refers to the plant's seed pods, which can cling to clothing and animal fur like ticks.
  • Another common name is "beggar's-ticks," potentially indicating seed dispersal via attachment.

Further Information

  • USDA Plants Database: USDA-NRCS PLANTS Database
  • Discover Life: Discover Life