Overview
Desmodium supinum DC. is a species of flowering plant that belongs to the Fabaceae family. The plant is native to the tropical regions of Asia and Africa but is now widespread in many parts of the world as an invasive species.
Common Names
The plant is commonly known as trailing tick trefoil, sprawler desmodium, or creeping desmodium due to its trailing growth habit.
Appearance
Desmodium supinum DC. is a herbaceous and perennial plant that can grow up to 60 centimeters tall. The stems are thin, long, and somewhat hairy, allowing the plant to spread widely along the ground. The leaves are trifoliate and small, measuring 3-7 cm long and 1.5-3 cm wide
The flowers of Desmodium supinum DC. are small and grouped in inflorescences at the end of the stems. They are pink or purple and bloom in late summer to early fall. The fruit is a small pod containing one to two seeds that are dispersed by animals or falling to the ground.
Uses
Desmodium supinum DC. has various uses in traditional medicine, particularly in India, where it is believed to have medicinal properties that help remedy various illnesses such as fever, digestive problems, and cough.
In agriculture, the plant is commonly used as a cover crop to enrich the soil with nitrogen, reduce soil erosion, and control weeds.
However, the plant is considered an invasive species in some parts of the world, including Hawaii and several countries in Africa, where it can quickly take over and suppress the growth of native plant species.
Light Requirements
Desmodium supinum DC. typically grows best in full sun or partial shade conditions. The plant can tolerate a range of light conditions, but it prefers bright sunlight for optimal growth and flowering.
Temperature Requirements
The plant is native to tropical regions and requires warm temperatures for growth. The ideal temperature range for Desmodium supinum DC. is between 20-30°C (68-86°F) during the day and 15-20°C (59-68°F) at night. The plant can tolerate higher temperatures, but prolonged exposure to temperatures above 35°C (95°F) can cause stress and growth problems.
Soil Requirements
Desmodium supinum DC. grows well in a variety of soil types, including sandy, loamy, and clay soils. However, the plant prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. The soil pH should be slightly acidic to neutral, ranging from 6.0 to 7.5. The plant is sensitive to waterlogged soil, so proper drainage is crucial for healthy growth.
Cultivation Methods
Desmodium supinum DC., commonly known as trailing tick-trefoil, is a perennial herb that grows best in warm climates with well-draining soils. The plant can be propagated by seeds or through stem cuttings. If you are starting from seeds, sow them in a well-draining seed starting mix and keep moist until germination. Once the seedlings have sprouted 2-3 true leaves, they can be transplanted into the garden or larger pots.
If propagating through stem cuttings, cut a stem piece that is around 4-6 inches in length from a mature plant and remove the bottom leaves. Dip the cut end into rooting hormone powder and plant in moist potting soil or sand. Keep the soil moist and in a warm, well-lit area until roots develop, then transplant to larger pots or the garden.
Watering Needs
Trailing tick-trefoil prefers to be kept slightly moist but not waterlogged. Water the plant deeply once a week during the growing season, allowing the soil to dry out slightly between waterings. In the winter, reduce watering frequency to once every two weeks. Be sure to water at the base of the plant to avoid wetting the foliage, as this can promote fungal diseases.
Fertilization
Desmodium supinum DC. is not a heavy feeder and can thrive with minimal fertilization. If planting in poor soil, amend with compost or a general-purpose slow-release fertilizer before planting. Once established, apply a balanced water-soluble fertilizer every four to six weeks during the growing season to promote healthy growth.
Pruning
Pruning is not necessary for trailing tick-trefoil, but it can benefit from a light trim in the early spring to encourage bushier growth. Remove dead or damaged foliage and lightly shape the plant if desired. Avoid heavy pruning as this can set the plant back and reduce blooming.
Propagation of Desmodium supinum DC.
Desmodium supinum DC. can be propagated both sexually (through seed) and asexually (through stem cuttings, division of rhizomes, or layering).
Propagation through Seed
The plant produces small, oblong-shaped seeds that can be harvested once they have completely ripened on the plant. The seeds should be sown in sandy loam soil in the early spring, either in pots or directly in the field. If sowing directly in the field, it is recommended to sow the seeds in rows with a distance of 30-45 cm between them. The seeds should be planted at a depth of 1-2 cm. Once the plants have reached a height of 10-15 cm, they can be thinned to a spacing of 15-30 cm.
Propagation through Stem Cuttings
Stem cuttings can be taken from the plant during its dormant season, between December to February. The cuttings should be taken from healthy, disease-free plants and should ideally be around 15-20 cm long. The cuttings should then be dipped in rooting hormone and placed in pots or directly in the field, with a spacing of 30-45 cm. The ideal soil for the cuttings is a mixture of sand and loam. The soil should be kept moist, but not waterlogged. The cuttings should start developing roots within 3-4 weeks.
Propagation through Division of Rhizomes
Desmodium supinum DC. produces thick, long rhizomes that can be divided during the dormant season, between December to February. The rhizomes should be dug out carefully, and the roots and stems should be trimmed. The rhizomes can then be planted directly in the field, with a spacing of 30-45 cm between them. The rhizomes should be planted at a depth of 2-3 cm.
Propagation through Layering
Layering is a technique where the stem of the plant is bent and buried into the soil to allow it to develop roots and form a new plant. In Desmodium supinum DC., layering is done during its growing season, between June to August. The stem should be bent and buried into the soil with a depth of 5-8 cm. After 4-6 weeks, the buried section of the stem should have developed roots, at which point it can be cut off from the parent plant and planted in a new location.
Disease Management
Desmodium supinum DC. can be affected by various fungal and bacterial diseases that can cause significant damage to the plant. Common diseases that affect the plant include:
- Root rot disease: caused by various pathogenic fungi, leading to the decay of the root system and ultimately wilting of the plant. To manage the disease, it is essential to ensure proper drainage and prevent overwatering. Fungicides can also be used to control the spread of the disease.
- Leaf spot disease: caused by fungal pathogens, characterized by the appearance of dark spots on the leaves that can cause defoliation. The disease can be managed through the use of fungicides and good cultural practices, such as ensuring adequate spacing between plants to promote better air circulation.
- Powdery mildew: caused by fungal pathogens, identified by the appearance of white powdery patches on the leaves. The disease can be managed by removing infected leaves and using fungicides to prevent further spread.
Pest Management
Desmodium supinum DC. can also be attacked by a variety of pests that can cause significant damage to the plant, including:
- Caterpillars: can cause significant damage to the leaves and stems of the plant. The pests can be managed through the use of biological control methods, such as introducing natural predators into the environment or using insecticides.
- Aphids: pests that suck on the sap of the plant, causing wilting of leaves and stunted growth. The pests can be managed through the use of insecticides and through good cultural practices, such as ensuring proper spacing between plants to promote better air circulation.
- Spider mites: small pests that suck on the sap of the plant, causing discoloration of the leaves and stunted growth. The pests can be managed through the use of insecticides or through the use of biological control methods, such as introducing natural predators into the environment.
It is essential to identify and manage diseases and pests early to prevent significant damage to the plant and ensure optimal growth and yield.
