Status:
valid
Authors:
Griseb.
Source:
ildis
Year:
1866
Citation Micro:
Cat. Pl. Cub.: 73 (1866)
WFO Identifier:
wfo-0000170281
Common Names
- Cuban Tick-trefoil
- Cuban Desmodium
- Cuban Tick Clover
Synonyms
- Meibomia cowellii Britton [valid]
- Meibomia cubensis Schindl. [valid]
Description
Desmodium cubense (also called Cuban Tick-trefoil, among many other common names) is a perennial herbaceous plant native to Central America. It has small, oval-shaped leaves and small, white flowers. It typically grows in moist, well-drained soils in open woods and meadows.
Uses & Benefits
Desmodium cubense is used as a medicinal plant, as a fodder crop for livestock, and as a soil-binding plant to prevent erosion.
Flower, Seeds and Seedlings
Desmodium cubense has small, white flowers that are about 1/2 inch in diameter. The seeds are small, dark brown, and have a hard outer shell. The seedlings are slender with long, thin leaves.
Cultivation and Propagation
Desmodium cubense is a perennial herbaceous plant that is native to Mexico. It prefers full sun and well-drained soil. Propagation is done by seed or cuttings. Seeds should be sown in spring or summer in a warm, sunny location. Cuttings should be taken in spring or summer and rooted in a warm, moist location.
Where to Find Desmodium cubense
Desmodium cubense can be found in tropical areas of South America, Central America, and the Caribbean.
Desmodium cubense FAQ
What is the growth rate of Desmodium cubense?
Desmodium cubense has a moderate growth rate.
What is the soil type suitable for Desmodium cubense?
Desmodium cubense prefers well-drained, sandy or loamy soil.
What is the ideal temperature for Desmodium cubense?
Desmodium cubense prefers temperatures between 65-75°F (18-24°C).
Species in the Desmodium genus
Desmodium affine,
Desmodium ambiguum,
Desmodium amplifolium,
Desmodium angustatum,
Desmodium angustifolium,
Desmodium arechavaletae,
Desmodium arizonicum,
Desmodium batocaulon,
Desmodium bellum,
Desmodium bioculatum,
Desmodium bridgesii,
Desmodium callilepis,
Desmodium campyloclados,
Desmodium canaliculatum,
Desmodium chartaceum,
Desmodium chiapense,
Desmodium cinerascens,
Desmodium coloniense,
Desmodium conzattii,
Desmodium cordistipulum,
Desmodium crassum,
Desmodium cubense,
Desmodium cuneatum,
Desmodium delotum,
Desmodium densiflorum,
Desmodium denudatum,
Desmodium fernaldii,
Desmodium floridanum,
Desmodium foliosum,
Desmodium ghiesbreghtii,
Desmodium glabrescens,
Desmodium gracile,
Desmodium grahamii,
Desmodium guadalajaranum,
Desmodium hartwegianum,
Desmodium hassleri,
Desmodium helleri,
Desmodium illinoense,
Desmodium infractum,
Desmodium intermedium,
Desmodium jaliscanum,
Desmodium johnstonii,
Desmodium lamprocarpum,
Desmodium lavanduliflorum,
Desmodium leptoclados,
Desmodium limense,
Desmodium lindheimeri,
Desmodium longiarticulatum,
Desmodium luteolum,
Desmodium macrodesmum,
Species in the Fabaceae family