Overview
Desmodium axillare (Sw.) DC. var. axillare is a species of flowering plant in the pea family Fabaceae. It is native to tropical and subtropical regions in Asia, Africa, and the Americas. The plant is commonly known by several names, including tick-trefoil, greenleaf desmodium, and trailing tick-trefoil.Description
Desmodium axillare is a herbaceous plant that typically grows to a height of 30-60 cm. It has a trailing, prostrate growth habit and forms dense clusters. The leaves of the plant are trifoliate, with each leaflet being somewhat oval-shaped and measuring around 2-8 cm in length. The leaflets are arranged alternately on the stem, and are a dark to medium green in color. The flowers of Desmodium axillare are borne on spikes that emerge from the leaf axils. The flowers have a distinct pea-like shape, and are typically pink, purple, or white in color. They are also highly fragrant and attract a variety of insect pollinators.Uses
Desmodium axillare has a variety of uses in traditional medicine, especially in the areas where it is native. The plant is known for its anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties, which makes it useful for reducing pain and swelling. It has also been used to treat respiratory ailments such as asthma and bronchitis. In addition to its medicinal uses, Desmodium axillare is also used as a forage crop for livestock, as it is highly nutritious and palatable. The plant has a high protein content and is also rich in vitamins and minerals.Cultivation
Desmodium axillare is a hardy plant that can grow in a variety of soil types, from sandy to loam to clay. It requires full sunlight to thrive, but can also tolerate partial shade. The plant is fairly drought-tolerant once established, but grows best in areas with consistent moisture. Propagation of Desmodium axillare is typically done through seed, which can be sown directly in the ground or started in containers. The plant is also easy to propagate through stem cuttings, which can be rooted in a moist growing medium.Light Requirements
Desmodium axillare (Sw.) DC. var. axillare is a plant that requires full sunlight to grow. It cannot tolerate shady areas and performs best in areas that receive at least six hours of direct sunlight. Insufficient light may result in poor growth and development of the plant, especially during the vegetative stage.
Temperature Requirements
The plant prefers warm temperature conditions and cannot withstand frost. The optimal temperature range for Desmodium axillare (Sw.) DC. var. axillare growth is between 20 to 30°C (68 to 86°F). Temperatures above 30°C (86°F) may lead to heat stress; therefore, it is advisable to avoid planting or growing the plant under such conditions.
Soil Requirements
Desmodium axillare (Sw.) DC. var. axillare can grow in a wide range of soil types, including sandy, loamy, and clay soils. However, for optimal growth, the plant prefers well-drained, moist soils, with a pH range of 6.0 to 7.5. The soil should have a high fertility level with good amounts of organic matter and nutrients. The plant can also grow in slightly acidic soils but cannot tolerate highly alkaline soils.
Cultivation methods for Desmodium axillare (Sw.) DC. var. axillare
Desmodium axillare (Sw.) DC. var. axillare can be grown either through seeds or by stem cutting. For the seed method, the seeds should be soaked in warm water for around 24 hours before sowing. The plant requires well-draining soil with a pH ranging from 5.5 to 7.5 and should be grown in full sun or partial shade. The plant does well in tropical or subtropical regions and can also handle drought-like conditions.
Watering needs for Desmodium axillare (Sw.) DC. var. axillare
The plant requires moderate watering. It should be watered once or twice a week, depending on the moisture level of the soil. The soil should be moist but not waterlogged as this can cause root rot. During the dry season, it may need more frequent watering.
Fertilization and soil nutrition for Desmodium axillare (Sw.) DC. var. axillare
The plant requires regular fertilization to support its growth. A balanced N-P-K fertilizer should be applied every two to three months. Additionally, organic matter such as compost or manure can be added to the soil to improve the nutrient content. It is important not to over-fertilize the plant as this can lead to excessive foliage growth and may reduce its ability to produce flowers and seeds.
Pruning guidelines for Desmodium axillare (Sw.) DC. var. axillare
Desmodium axillare (Sw.) DC. var. axillare requires pruning to control its growth and shape. Dead or damaged branches should be removed promptly as they can encourage the growth of pests and diseases. The plant can also be pruned in early spring to remove any weak or overcrowded branches, ensuring better air circulation and light penetration. When pruning, it is essential to use sharp, sterile tools to prevent the spread of plant diseases.
Propagation of Desmodium axillare (Sw.) DC. var. axillare
Desmodium axillare (Sw.) DC. var. axillare can be propagated through several different methods including seed propagation, cuttings, and division. Each method has its advantages and disadvantages, and gardeners can choose the method that works best for them.
Seed Propagation
The most common method to propagate Desmodium axillare (Sw.) DC. var. axillare is through seed propagation. Seeds should be sown in well-draining soil and should be lightly covered with soil. Lightly water the soil, and place the container in a warm, bright location. Seeds usually take around two to four weeks to germinate.
Once the plants have grown large enough to handle, they can be transplanted into larger containers or directly into the ground. Seed propagation can take longer than other methods, but it allows gardeners to produce a large number of plants at once.
Cuttings
Desmodium axillare (Sw.) DC. var. axillare can also be propagated through cuttings taken from mature plants. Cuttings should be taken during the spring or summer months when the plants are actively growing. Cuttings should be around 6 inches (15 cm) long, and should have several leaves on them.
Dip the cuttings into rooting hormone and plant them in well-draining soil. Keep the soil moist, and place the container in a bright, warm location. The cuttings should root within a few weeks and can be transplanted into larger containers or directly into the ground.
Division
Division is another method to propagate Desmodium axillare (Sw.) DC. var. axillare that works well for established plants. Simply dig up the plant, and divide it into several smaller clumps. Each clump should have a portion of the root system and several stems with leaves.
Plant each clump into a well-draining soil and water it regularly until the plant establishes itself in the soil. This method allows gardeners to produce new plants quickly from established plants and ensures that the new plants will have the same characteristics as the parent plant.
Disease and Pest Management for Desmodium axillare (Sw.) DC. var. axillare
Desmodium axillare (Sw.) DC. var. axillare is a hardy plant that is resistant to many pests and diseases. However, like all plants, it is susceptible to a few pests and diseases that can cause significant damage to the plant. Below are the common diseases and pests that might affect the plant and some ways to manage them.
Diseases
Leaf Spot
Leaf spot is a common fungal disease that affects Desmodium axillare. It is characterized by small, circular, brown or black spots that appear on the leaves of the plant. The spots may merge together, causing the leaves to turn yellow and fall off the plant. To manage this disease, remove and destroy the infected leaves and avoid watering the plant from above. Also, ensure good air circulation around the plant by spacing out the plants properly.
Root Rot
Root rot is a fungal disease that affects the roots of the plant. It is caused by overwatering, poor soil drainage, and lack of oxygen around the roots. The plant may show signs of wilting and yellowing of leaves, and eventually, the roots will turn brown or black. To manage this disease, avoid overwatering the plant and ensure that the soil has good drainage. Also, ensure proper spacing between the plants for good air circulation.
Pests
Aphids
Aphids are small, soft-bodied insects that suck the sap from the leaves of the plant. This can cause the leaves to curl and distort, and stunt the growth of the plant. To manage aphids, spray the plant with a strong jet of water to wash them off, or use insecticidal soap or neem oil to kill them. You may also introduce natural predators like ladybugs to feed on the aphids.
Whiteflies
Whiteflies are tiny, white insects that fly around the plant and suck the sap from the leaves. They cause the leaves to turn yellow and eventually drop off the plant. To manage whiteflies, introduce natural predators like lacewings or encourage birds to feed on them. You may also use sticky traps to trap and kill the flies.
By implementing the above disease and pest management strategies, you can keep your Desmodium axillare healthy and thriving.
