Introduction
Desmodium axillare (Sw.) DC. var. obtusifolium (Kuntze) Urban is a species of plant belonging to the Fabaceae family. It is a perennial herbaceous plant that is native to the Americas and is found mainly in tropical regions.Common Names
Desmodium axillare (Sw.) DC. var. obtusifolium (Kuntze) Urban is commonly known as tick trefoil, tick clover, or beggar lice due to the plant's numerous small sharp seed pods, which are said to resemble burrs of ticks and can stick to clothing or animal fur.Appearance
Desmodium axillare (Sw.) DC. var. obtusifolium (Kuntze) Urban is a small herbaceous plant that grows up to 1 meter in height. Its stems are slender and hairy, with alternate leaves that are ovate to oblong in shape. The leaves have a smooth upper surface and hairy underside. The plant produces numerous clusters of small, pink, lavender or purple flowers, which bloom in late summer to early fall. The flowers are fragrant and attract a variety of pollinators including bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds. After pollination, the plant produces numerous small seedpods, which are covered in small sharp hooks that can easily attach to clothing or animal fur.Uses
Desmodium axillare (Sw.) DC. var. obtusifolium (Kuntze) Urban has been used in traditional medicine for a variety of ailments. The plant is said to have diuretic, anti-inflammatory, and analgesic properties and has been used to treat bladder and kidney problems, respiratory issues, and joint pain. The plant is also used as a forage for livestock, as it is highly nutritious and a good source of protein. It can also be used to help prevent soil erosion and improve soil fertility. In summary, Desmodium axillare (Sw.) DC. var. obtusifolium (Kuntze) Urban is a small herbaceous plant native to the Americas that has a number of traditional medicinal uses. Its numerous small seedpods, which are said to resemble burrs of ticks, can attach to clothing or animal fur. Its pink, lavender or purple flowers bloom in late summer to early fall and attract pollinators such as bees and butterflies.Light Requirements
Desmodium axillare (Sw.) DC. var. obtusifolium (Kuntze) Urban is adapted to grow under full sunlight conditions. This plant species requires approximately 6-8 hours of sun exposure per day for optimal growth. However, prolonged exposure to direct sunlight may lead to stunted growth and reduced productivity. Therefore, it is recommended to provide some shade during the hottest part of the day in regions with intense sunlight.
Temperature Requirements
The plant Desmodium axillare (Sw.) DC. var. obtusifolium (Kuntze) Urban prefers warm temperatures throughout the year. The optimal temperature range for growth and development is between 20°C and 30°C. Temperatures outside of this range may adversely affect growth and productivity. In regions with colder temperatures, it may be necessary to provide protection from frost or extreme cold, which could cause damage or death to the plant.
Soil Requirements
The plant Desmodium axillare (Sw.) DC. var. obtusifolium (Kuntze) Urban thrives in well-drained soils that are rich in organic matter. The optimal soil pH is between 5.5 and 6.5. Soils that are too acidic or alkaline may limit plant growth. Additionally, the plant prefers soils that are fertile and have good water-holding capacity. It is recommended to incorporate compost or organic matter into the soil to improve soil structure and fertility.
Cultivation methods
Desmodium axillare (Sw.) DC. var. obtusifolium (Kuntze) Urban can be grown in a variety of soil types, but prefers well-drained soil. The ideal pH range for this plant is between 6 and 7.5. It can be grown in both full sun and partial shade, but prefers to be shielded from intense afternoon sunlight. Sow the seeds at a depth of 2 cm, and keep the soil moist until they germinate.
Watering needs
Desmodium axillare (Sw.) DC. var. obtusifolium (Kuntze) Urban requires moderate watering. Water the plant deeply at least once a week, depending on the moisture level in the soil and weather conditions. The soil should be kept moist but not soggy, as the plant is susceptible to root rot.
Fertilization
It is recommended that Desmodium axillare (Sw.) DC. var. obtusifolium (Kuntze) Urban be fertilized in the spring. Use a balanced fertilizer with equal amounts of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. Apply the fertilizer at the recommended rate, and avoid over-fertilizing, as this can result in poor growth and reduced flowering.
Pruning
Desmodium axillare (Sw.) DC. var. obtusifolium (Kuntze) Urban benefits from pruning to promote bushy growth and control its size. Prune the plant in the late winter or early spring before it begins to grow. Cut back any damaged or diseased branches to healthy wood, and remove any weak or crossing branches. Cut the terminal bud to encourage lateral growth, and prune to maintain the desired shape and size.
Propagation of Desmodium axillare (Sw.) DC. var. obtusifolium (Kuntze) Urban
Desmodium axillare (Sw.) DC. var. obtusifolium (Kuntze) Urban can be propagated by both sexual and asexual methods.
Sexual Propagation
Desmodium axillare (Sw.) DC. var. obtusifolium (Kuntze) Urban can be propagated by seeds. The seeds can be directly sown into the soil or started indoors in pots. To plant the seeds, the soil must be moist, and the seeds should be placed below 1-2 cm in the soil. The germination period is about 10-15 days. After germination, the seedlings can be transplanted into larger pots or directly into the field.
Asexual Propagation
Desmodium axillare (Sw.) DC. var. obtusifolium (Kuntze) Urban can be propagated asexually by stem cuttings. The best time to take stem cuttings is during the growing season when the plant's growth is strong. Cuttings should be around 10-15 cm long and should have three to four leaf nodes that can be buried in the soil. The cuttings should be placed in the soil, well-watered, and kept in a shaded place to prevent wilting. Rooting will occur within 2-3 weeks, and once rooted, the cuttings can be transplanted.
Disease and Pest Management for Desmodium axillare
Desmodium axillare (Sw.) DC. var. obtusifolium (Kuntze) Urban, commonly known as tick clover or greenleaf desmodium, is a tropical legume that grows well in humid, tropical environments. Like all plants, it is susceptible to various diseases and pests that can negatively impact growth and yield. Here are some common diseases and pests that might affect the plant and suggestions for managing them:
Diseases
Fungal Leaf Spots: This disease is caused by several fungi, including Cercospora, Phyllosticta, and Septoria. Symptoms include small, circular, brown or black spots on leaves that can cause leaf death and defoliation. To manage this disease, remove and destroy infected leaves, improve air circulation around plants, and avoid overhead irrigation.
Anthracnose: This fungal disease causes brown, water-soaked lesions on leaves, stems, and pods. Lower leaves may yellow and drop prematurely. To prevent this disease, practice crop rotation, avoid overhead irrigation, and remove and destroy infected plant debris.
Rust: This disease is caused by several fungal species and appears as yellow-orange spots on leaves, stems, and pods. Severe infections can lead to defoliation and stunted growth. To manage rust, remove and destroy infected plant debris, avoid overhead irrigation, and improve air circulation around plants.
Pests
Aphids: These small insects feed on plant sap and can cause stunted growth, yellowed leaves, and distorted plant parts. To control aphids, spray plants with insecticidal soap or neem oil, or introduce natural predators like ladybugs or lacewings.
Spider Mites: These pests are common in hot, dry weather and can cause yellowing and bronzing of leaves, as well as webbing on the undersides of leaves. To control spider mites, increase humidity around plants, spray with water to remove webs and insects, and apply insecticidal soap or oil.
Cutworms: Cutworms are moth larvae that cut through stems at soil level, causing wilting and death. To prevent cutworm damage, use collars around plant stems or apply a soil insecticide before planting.
By implementing these disease and pest management strategies, you can help ensure healthy growth and yield of your Desmodium axillare plants.
