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ticktrefoil

Scientific Name: Desmodium sericophyllum

Family: Fabaceae

Category: Dicot

Growth:

Duration:

Other Names:

       

Showy Tick Trefoil (Desmodium canadense) and Other Tick Trefoils

The genus Desmodium, belonging to the Fabaceae (bean) family, includes various species known as tick-trefoil, tick clover, hitch hikers, or beggar lice. These common names arise from the plant's seed pods, which readily cling to clothing and fur.

Considerations for Pets and Children

  • The plant's common names (e.g., "tick clover," "beggar lice," "stick tights") hint at the seed pods' tendency to stick to clothing and fur. These pods are described as having hooked hairs, which may cause minor irritation.

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

  • Scientific Name: Desmodium canadense
  • Common Names: Showy Tick Trefoil, Canada Tick Trefoil, Beggar's Lice, Stick Tights
  • Family: Fabaceae (Bean family)
  • Genus: Desmodium

Distribution and Habitat

  • Showy Tick Trefoil (Desmodium canadense) is native to North America.
  • It is found in various habitats, including upland prairies, roadsides, and old fields.
  • Other Desmodium species are also found in woodland or woods edge situations.

Morphological Characteristics and Growth Habits

  • Showy Tick Trefoil is a slender-stemmed, often bushy perennial, typically growing to 2-6 feet (approximately 0.6-1.8 meters) in height.
  • The central stem is described as stout, round, and covered with fine hooked hairs.
  • Flowers are typically rose-colored or pink, pea-like, and occur in dense clusters.
  • Leaves are trifoliolate (having three leaflets).

Ecological Role

  • Desmodium canadense is a legume, meaning it contributes to nitrogen fixation in the soil.
  • It supports a wide range of wildlife.
  • In some contexts, it can be considered a weed, particularly in pastures, roadsides, and non-croplands.

Quirky Facts

  • The name Desmodium comes from the Greek word meaning "long branch or chain," referring to the plant's structure.
  • Desmodium canadense gets its species name from "of Canada," referencing its origin.

Additional Information

  • The USDA NRCS (Natural Resources Conservation Service) Plant Materials Center contributes plant guides.
  • The USDA Plants Database lists numerous Desmodium species found in the United States.