Overview
Desmodium axillare (Sw.) DC. var. stoloniferum (L.C. Rich. ex Poir.) Schub. is a trailing perennial herb belonging to the family Fabaceae. It is commonly known as creeping tick trefoil or in Spanish as "maní de caballo" or "alverjilla."
Origin and Distribution
Creeping tick trefoil is native to Central and South America, including Mexico, the Caribbean, Colombia, Venezuela, Ecuador, Peru, Brazil, and Argentina. It has also naturalized in parts of Africa, Australia, and Asia. It prefers warm and humid environments and can grow in a wide variety of soils, including those that are poor and acidic.
Appearance
The plant grows from a central taproot and produces multiple long, slender, and flexible stems that can reach up to 2 meters in length. The stems are square in cross-section and covered with fine hairs. The leaves are pinnately compound, with three leaflets that are ovate in shape and arranged alternately along the stem. The leaflets are 2-5 cm long and 1-3 cm wide, and have smooth margins and a dark green color. The plant produces small pink to purple flowers, clustered in spikes that arise from the leaf axils. The flowers are hermaphrodite and are often visited by bees and other pollinators. The fruit is a small and flattened pod that contains several seeds.
Uses
Creeping tick trefoil has a number of traditional medicinal uses. It has been used to treat respiratory diseases, digestive disorders, and skin conditions. The plant is rich in flavonoids, alkaloids, and other bioactive compounds that may have anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, antioxidant, and anticancer properties. The plant is also a valuable forage crop for livestock, and is used as a green manure crop to improve soil fertility and control weeds. Additionally, the plant has potential as a cover crop in agroforestry systems because of its ability to fix nitrogen, prevent soil erosion, and improve soil moisture retention.
Light Requirements
Desmodium axillare var. stoloniferum grows best under full sunlight, although it can also tolerate partial shade. It is a commonly found plant species in open grasslands, fallows and disturbed habitats.
Temperature Requirements
This plant species is a warm-season crop that prefers temperatures ranging from 20-35°C (68-95°F). It can grow in areas with an average annual temperature of 18°C (64°F) and can tolerate occasional frosts, although prolonged exposure to cool temperatures may result in stunted growth.
Soil Requirements
Desmodium axillare var. stoloniferum prefers well-drained soils, with a pH range of 5.5 to 7.5. It can grow in sandy to clay loam soils that are rich in organic matter. This species is relatively drought tolerant, but responds well to sufficient moisture in the soil.
Cultivation Methods
Desmodium axillare var. stoloniferum is a hardy plant that prefers a lot of sunlight and moderate temperatures, making it ideal for outdoor cultivation. It can be propagated through seeds or cuttings and requires well-drained soil with plenty of organic matter.
To cultivate, start by preparing the soil bed. Loosen it to a depth of about 30cm and add about 10cm of well-rotted manure or compost. Then, plant the seeds or cuttings about 60cm apart, and water well. Keep the soil moist for the first few weeks until the plant establishes itself and starts to grow.
Watering Needs
Desmodium axillare var. stoloniferum requires moderate watering. Overwatering can result in root rot or dull growth, while underwatering can cause the leaves and stems to wither and dry out.
The plant should be watered thoroughly once a week, or more frequently during hot and dry weather. Ensure the soil stays evenly moist, but not waterlogged, and avoid overhead watering, as this can cause fungal diseases.
Fertilization
To maintain healthy growth and encourage flowering, Desmodium axillare var. stoloniferum requires regular fertilization. Use a balanced fertilizer with an N-P-K ratio of 10-10-10 or similar, every 4-6 weeks during the growing season.
Avoid over-fertilization, as this can result in lush, vegetative growth with weak stems that are prone to breaking. Organic options like bone meal, fish meal, and compost can also be used to fertilize the soil.
Pruning
Desmodium axillare var. stoloniferum requires minimal pruning, but can still benefit from occasional trimming to promote bushier growth and more blooms.
Deadhead the spent flowers to encourage the plant to produce more blooms, and remove any yellowing or damaged leaves or stems. If the plant becomes too leggy or sprawling, it can also be lightly pruned to encourage more compact growth.
Propagation of Desmodium Axillare var. Stoloniferum
Desmodium Axillare var. Stoloniferum, also known as trailing tick trefoil, is a perennial legume with creeping or trailing stems that makes it suitable for ground cover. It is native to Central America and South America. Propagation of the plant can be done by various methods, which include:
Propagation by Seeds
Seeds of Desmodium Axillare var. Stoloniferum can be collected from mature pods and sowed immediately. The seeds should be scarified to enhance germination. The seeds should be sown at a depth of 1 cm in well-draining soil. The soil should be kept moist until germination occurs which can take up to 30 days. The seedlings can be transplanted when they have developed true leaves.
Propagation by Cuttings
Desmodium Axillare var. Stoloniferum can be propagated by stem cuttings. Select a healthy stem with at least two nodes and remove all the leaves except the top two. Dip the cuttings in rooting hormone and plant them in a well-draining potting mix. The potting mix should be kept moist until the cuttings have formed roots which can take up to 4 weeks. The rooted cuttings can be transplanted into the garden when they have developed a good root system.
Propagation by Division
Propagation of Desmodium Axillare var. Stoloniferum can also be done by division. The plant can be divided in early spring before new growth begins. Dig up the plant carefully and separate it into sections making sure each section has enough roots and stem attached. Replant the sections into well-draining soil and water thoroughly. The new plants will begin to grow within a few weeks.
Disease Management of Desmodium axillare var. stoloniferum
Desmodium axillare var. stoloniferum is susceptible to several diseases that can negatively impact plant growth and yield. Here are some common diseases and ways to manage them.
Anthracnose
Anthracnose is a fungal disease that causes the plant's leaves to turn yellow and wilt. It can also cause stem rot and premature leaf drop. To manage this disease, remove and destroy infected plant debris, practice crop rotation and apply fungicides.
Root-Knot Nematodes
Root-knot nematodes are tiny worm-like organisms that infest the plant's roots, causing knot-like growths. They can reduce plant growth and yield. To manage nematode infestations, practice crop rotation, and select resistant planting material. Additionally, planting marigold as a cover crop can help control nematodes in the soil.
Pest Management of Desmodium axillare var. stoloniferum
Desmodium axillare var. stoloniferum is susceptible to several insect pests that can undermine the plant's growth and yield. Below are common pests and ways to manage them.
Armyworms
Armyworms are larval stage caterpillars of certain moth species. They feed on the plant's foliage, causing defoliation and stunted growth. To manage armyworms, monitor your crop regularly, and remove infected plants. Additionally, release natural predators or apply organic insecticides that target armyworms.
Aphids
Aphids are common pests that feed on the plant's sap, causing stunted growth. They can also transmit plant viruses. To manage aphid infestations, regularly inspect your crop and remove infested plants. Additionally, introduce natural predators or apply insecticidal soap sprays.
By implementing the management practices above, farmers can effectively control pests and diseases and ensure healthy crop growth and yield of Desmodium axillare var. stoloniferum.
