Overview of Desmodium axillare (Sw.) DC.
Desmodium axillare (Sw.) DC., commonly known as tick clover, is a perennial plant species of the Fabaceae family. It is native to tropical and sub-tropical regions of Africa, Asia, Australia, and the Pacific Islands. The plant has several medicinal properties and is used as a forage crop, cover crop, and green manure in agriculture.
Physical Characteristics of Desmodium axillare (Sw.) DC.
The plant has a deep, fibrous root system and grows up to 1 meter tall. It has a scrambling growth habit with hairy, woody stems that are up to 2 cm in diameter. The leaves are trifoliate, green, and oval-shaped, up to 10 cm long and 7 cm wide. The flowers are small, pink or purple, and arranged in dense spikes or racemes. The fruit is a legume pod, up to 3 cm long, containing small seeds.
Common Uses of Desmodium axillare (Sw.) DC.
Desmodium axillare has a long history of use in traditional medicine in several cultures. The plant is used to treat various conditions, including respiratory infections, digestive problems, fever, and skin diseases. It is also a rich source of flavonoids, alkaloids, and other bioactive compounds that have antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anti-tumor properties.
In agriculture, Desmodium axillare is used as a forage crop and cover crop because of its ability to fix nitrogen in the soil. It is also used as a green manure crop to improve soil fertility and suppress weeds. The plant can grow in a wide range of soil types and is drought-resistant, making it an ideal crop for smallholder farmers in developing countries.
Lastly, Desmodium axillare is also used as an ornamental plant in parks and gardens because of its attractive flowers and foliage.
Light Requirements
Desmodium axillare prefers to grow in areas with partial to full sunlight, which means they require at least 3-6 hours of direct sunlight every day. When grown in shaded areas, the plant tends to grow taller with thinner stems, and its leaves are a lighter green color.
Temperature Requirements
This plant species grows optimally in warm environments. The optimum growth temperature for this species ranges from 20°C to 30°C. If grown in temperatures below this range, the plant's growth may slow down, and in extreme cases, it can cause stunted growth or even death.
Soil Requirements
Desmodium axillare prefers well-drained, fertile soils that have a slightly acidic to neutral pH ranging from 6.0 to 7.0. However, the plant can tolerate a wide range of soil types, including sandy, loamy, and even clay soils.
It is essential to note that the plant prefers soils that are rich in organic matter, and you may need to add organic matter to the soil to improve its texture and fertility.
Cultivation Methods for Desmodium axillare (Sw.) DC.
Desmodium axillare is an easily grown plant that thrives in full sun or partial shade in many different soil types.
The best time for planting is during the rainy season when there is enough water for the plant's optimal growth.
The plant is propagated through seeds or cuttings. When planting seeds, they should be soaked in water for 24 hours before planting. For cuttings, the stems should be cut from a mature plant and planted into well-draining soil.
It is best to space each plant approximately 1 to 2 feet apart to allow for proper growth and expansion.
Watering Needs for Desmodium axillare (Sw.) DC.
Desmodium axillare requires moderate watering, with the ideal amount being once or twice a week. However, it is important to ensure the soil does not become waterlogged, as this could cause root rot.
During the dry season, the plant needs an additional watering frequency to maintain adequate soil moisture content.
Fertilization for Desmodium axillare (Sw.) DC.
For optimal growth, Desmodium axillare requires moderate fertilization. Fertilization should be done twice a year with organic fertilizer such as compost or manure. This should be done during the growing season and just before the rainy season starts so the plant can fully utilize the nutrients.
Pruning for Desmodium axillare (Sw.) DC.
Pruning is recommended for Desmodium axillare to maintain its shape and promote bushier growth. Pruning should be carried out in the early stages of growth to encourage branching. The best time to snip the plant is during the rainy season as it responds well to the pruning and will regrow quickly.
It is important to sanitize tools used in pruning to avoid the spread of disease or pests.
Propagation methods of Desmodium axillare
Desmodium axillare, commonly known as tick-trefoil, is a perennial plant that belongs to the family Fabaceae. Propagating Desmodium axillare can be achieved through various methods such as seed propagation, stem cuttings, and division.
Seed propagation
Desmodium axillare can be propagated by seeds. The plant produces seeds within its pods, and the seeds germinate under suitable conditions. The seeds should be sown in a well-draining soil mixture and kept in a warm and humid place. They will germinate in about two to four weeks.
Once the seedlings reach a suitable size, they should be transplanted into pots or directly into the ground. It is important to ensure that the soil has adequate nutrients and drainage to support the growth of the plant.
Stem cuttings
Propagation of Desmodium axillare can also be done by stem cuttings. The stem cuttings should be taken from the plant during its growing season and should have at least a few leaves attached to them. The cuttings should be about four to six inches long.
The cuttings should then be placed in a rooting hormone and planted in a well-drained soil mix. They should be placed in a warm and humid place and watered regularly. The cuttings will root within a few weeks and can be transplanted into desired pots or directly into the ground.
Division
Propagation of Desmodium axillare can also be done by division. The plant should be dug up, and the root system should be divided into smaller sections. Each section should have a sufficient root system and a few leaves attached to it.
The divided sections should be planted in a well-draining soil mix and placed in a warm and humid place. They should be watered regularly until they establish new roots and are able to support themselves.
Overall, Desmodium axillare can be easily propagated through various methods, making it an ideal plant for both indoor and outdoor gardening. Each propagation method has its own advantages and disadvantages, and gardeners can choose the method that best suits their needs and preferences.
Disease Management
Desmodium axillare is susceptible to various diseases that can damage the plant's growth and development. The common diseases that affect this plant include:
- Leaf spot: Leaf spot is a fungal disease that causes small, circular spots on the leaves. Infected leaves may turn yellow or brown and fall off. To manage this disease, remove infected leaves and avoid getting water on the foliage. Apply fungicide if necessary.
- Powdery mildew: Powdery mildew is a fungal disease that appears as a white powdery coating on the leaves. To manage this disease, practice good sanitation by removing infected plant debris. Maintain proper air circulation and avoid overhead watering. Apply fungicide if necessary.
- Root rot: Root rot is a fungal disease that affects the roots and stems of the plant causing them to rot. To manage this disease, it's important to maintain well-draining soil. Avoid overwatering and use fungicide to treat infected plants.
Pest Management
Desmodium axillare is also susceptible to pest infestation, which can lead to stunted growth and poor yield. Some common pests that can infest this plant include:
- Aphids: Aphids are small, soft-bodied insects that feed on the sap of the plant. To manage this pest, use insecticidal soap or neem oil.
- Leafhoppers: Leafhoppers are small, quick-moving insects that feed on the foliage causing yellowing and curling of leaves. To manage this pest, use insecticidal soap or neem oil.
- Caterpillars: Caterpillars are the larval stage of moths and butterflies that feed on the foliage. To manage this pest, handpick or use Bacillus thuringiensis (BT) insecticide.
- Spider mites: Spider mites are tiny insects that suck the sap from the plant causing leaves to become stippled and yellow. To manage this pest, use insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Regular inspection and monitoring of the plant can help identify pest infestations and disease symptoms early. Early intervention is crucial in managing these problems effectively.
