Origin and Common Names
Desmodium intortum (P. Mill.) Urban, also known as the tangled tick trefoil, is a species of flowering plant in the Fabaceae family. It is native to tropical and subtropical regions of the Americas, including South America, Central America, and the Caribbean. The plant has several common names such as burrweed, tickclover, and curly-top desmodium.
Appearance
The tangled tick trefoil is a perennial herb that can reach a height of up to 2 meters. The stems are slender and covered with fine hairs. The leaves are trifoliate and have oval or lance-shaped leaflets with pointed tips. The flowers are small and arranged in clusters that form cylindrical spikes. They can be pink, purple, or white and bloom from June to October. The fruits are 2 to 4-seeded pods that are covered with hooked spines which cause them to cling to clothing and animal fur, helping with seed dispersal.
Uses
Desmodium intortum has several uses in traditional medicine. It is believed to have diuretic, anti-inflammatory, antispasmodic, and anti-tumor properties. The plant has been used to treat various ailments like kidney diseases, coughs, and gastrointestinal infections. The tangled tick trefoil is also used as a forage plant for livestock and as a cover crop to prevent soil erosion. Its deep roots help fix nitrogen, a valuable nutrient for plants, which can enrich and improve soil quality.
Light Requirements
Desmodium intortum typically thrives in bright light conditions that range from full sun to partial shade. The plant can still grow in low light conditions, but its growth rate may be significantly reduced. However, when grown in full sun, it is essential to monitor the plant for adequate moisture levels because it may affect the plant's overall growth, and the leaves may start to wither if not given enough water.
Temperature Requirements
For optimal growth, Desmodium intortum requires warm and humid conditions. The ideal temperature range for growth is between 20-30°C (68-86°F), and if temperatures drop below 15°C (59°F), the plant may become dormant. This plant should be grown in areas that do not experience extreme temperature fluctuations, as it may stunt its growth or cause leaf damage.
Soil Requirements
Desmodium intortum prefers well-drained, loose, and fertile soils with a slightly acidic to neutral pH of 5.5-7.5. Adding organic matter such as compost or manure to the soil helps to retain moisture, improve soil structure, and provide essential nutrients for the plant to grow. The plant also needs appropriate soil moisture levels as it cannot tolerate standing water. Therefore, it is important to water it regularly but avoid over-watering or letting the soil become waterlogged.
Cultivation
Desmodium intortum is a tropical plant that grows well in warm and humid conditions. It requires moderate sunlight for growth and should be planted in well-draining soil. It can be propagated through seeds or cuttings. The plant can be planted in pots or in the ground. The plant requires regular maintenance, including watering and pruning.
Watering Needs
Desmodium intortum requires moderate watering. The plant should be watered once a week during the growing season. The soil should be kept moist but not too wet. Overwatering can lead to root rot, which can kill the plant. During the dry season, the plant should be watered more often to prevent the soil from drying out.
Fertilization
The plant requires regular fertilization to grow well. A balanced fertilizer with equal amounts of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium can be used. The plant can be fertilized every two weeks during the growing season with a water-soluble fertilizer. Granular fertilizer can also be used by applying it to the soil around the plant.
Pruning
Desmodium intortum can be pruned to promote bushier growth and prevent legginess. The plant should be pruned after the flowering season. The tips of the plant should be pinched to encourage lateral growth. Dead, damaged, or diseased branches should also be removed regularly to prevent the spread of diseases and pests.
Propagation of Desmodium intortum (P. Mill.) Urban
Desmodium intortum (P. Mill.) Urban, commonly known as the "tickleweed" or "ticktrefoil," is a perennial plant that belongs to the family Fabaceae. It is native to tropical and subtropical regions of the Americas, including the Caribbean, Central America, and South America. The plant is often used for forage and as a cover crop, as it is a nitrogen fixer and provides good ground cover.
Propagation Methods
There are several methods for propagating Desmodium intortum, including:
Seed Propagation
Desmodium intortum can be propagated from seeds, which can be collected from the plant when the pods turn brown and dry. The seeds should be sown in well-draining soil in a location with partial shade. The plants will germinate in approximately 5 to 7 days, and can be transplanted once they have several true leaves.
Stem Cuttings
Another method of propagation for Desmodium intortum is by stem cuttings. Cuttings should be taken from the plant's stems, which should be approximately 6 to 8 inches in length. The cuttings should be planted in well-draining soil and kept in partial shade until they have established roots, which takes approximately 2 to 3 weeks. Once they are established, the plants can be transplanted to their permanent location.
Root Division
Desmodium intortum can also be propagated by dividing the roots of an established plant. The plant should be dug up and the roots carefully separated. Each division should have several stems and a good root system. The divisions should be replanted in well-draining soil in a location with partial shade.
Overall, Desmodium intortum can be propagated easily through seed propagation, stem cuttings, or root division. When propagated successfully, the plant can provide its many benefits as a cover crop and forage for livestock.
Disease Management
Desmodium intortum is a hardy plant and is resistant to most plant diseases. However, if the plant is not taken care of properly and is planted in wet or humid conditions, it can be susceptible to the following diseases:
- Leaf Spot: This disease affects the leaves of the plant and appears as small, circular spots. To manage it, remove infected leaves and maintain good sanitation practices in the area around the plant.
- Crown Rot: This disease affects the base of the plant and can be caused by overwatering and poor drainage. Avoid overwatering the plant, ensure proper drainage, and remove infected plants immediately to manage crown rot.
- Anthracnose: This disease affects the stems and leaves of the plant and appears as small, dark lesions. To manage it, remove infected tissues and maintain good sanitation practices in the area around the plant.
Pest Management
Desmodium intortum is also resistant to most pests. However, the following pests may affect the plant:
- Cutworms: These pests feed on the stem of the plant and can cause significant damage. To manage cutworms, remove affected plants immediately and use insecticidal sprays to deter the pests.
- Aphids: These pests suck sap from the plant and can cause stunted growth and wilting. To manage aphids, use insecticidal soap or neem oil and prune affected areas of the plant.
- Spider Mites: These pests feed on the underside of the leaves of the plant and can cause yellowing of the leaves. To manage spider mites, use insecticidal soap or neem oil and maintain proper humidity levels to deter the pests.
