SafePlants

Panicledleaf Ticktrefoil (Desmodium paniculatum)

Desmodium paniculatum, commonly known as panicledleaf ticktrefoil, narrow-leaf tick-trefoil, and panicled tickclover, is a perennial herb and wildflower belonging to the pea family (Fabaceae).

Considerations for Pets

• This plant produces fruits that can adhere to fur.

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

• Scientific Name: Desmodium paniculatum (L.) DC.
• Family: Fabaceae (Pea family)
• Kingdom: Plantae
• Taxonomic Rank: Species
• Synonyms:
  • Desmodium paniculatum (L.) DC. var. paniculatum

Common Names

• Panicledleaf ticktrefoil
• Narrow-leaf tick-trefoil
• Panicled tickclover
• Panicled-leaf Tick-Trefoil
• Narrowleaf Tick-trefoil

Distribution and Habitat

Desmodium paniculatum is native to North America. It has been observed blooming in Howard County, Maryland. It can be found in locations such as Okusuma Park.

Morphological Characteristics and Growth Habits

• Desmodium paniculatum is a forb/herb, defined as a non-woody plant that is not a grass.
• It is a perennial, meaning it lives for more than two years.
• Among different populations, there is significant variation in the width of the leaflets and the hairiness of the stems and leaflets.
• It produces showy purple flowers in late summer.

Ecological Role

• Panicledleaf ticktrefoil attracts birds and serves as a grazing and browsing plant for livestock and mammalian wildlife.

Growing Conditions

• Light Requirements: Part-sun, part-shade.
• Water Use: Low, medium.

Interactions with Other Organisms

• It is noted as being part of the understory in pine stands, alongside plants like dogfennel and common ragweed.

Further Information

• USDA, NRCS Plant Fact Sheet
• Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center
• Discover Life
• Dave's Garden
• Alamy Stock Photos