Status:
valid
Authors:
R.Br.
Source:
ildis
Year:
1812
Citation Micro:
W.T.Aiton, Hortus Kew.4: 327 (1812)
WFO Identifier:
wfo-0000212615
Common Names
- Diffusa Lessertia
- Lessertia
- Diffusa
Synonyms
- Lessertia dubia (Jacq.) Druce [valid]
- Tephrosia dubia Pers. [valid]
- Galega dubia Jacq. [valid]
- Coluteastrum dubium (Pers.) Kuntze [valid]
Description
Lessertia diffusa (also called Diffuse Milkvetch, among many other common names) is an annual herb that grows up to 40 cm tall. It is native to western North America, and is found in dry, open habitats.
Uses & Benefits
Lessertia diffusa is used in traditional medicine, as a dye, and as an ornamental plant.
Flower, Seeds and Seedlings
Flower of Lessertia diffusa is yellow, with a long, cylindrical corolla, and the seed is a small, oblong, flattened pod. The seedlings are small, with a single, rounded cotyledon.
Cultivation and Propagation
Lessertia diffusa is a perennial shrub that is native to South Africa. It is easy to propagate from seed, and can be grown in a variety of soils. It prefers full sun and well-drained soil. It is drought tolerant and can tolerate temperatures down to -20°F. It can be propagated by division in the spring or fall. It can also be propagated from cuttings taken in the spring or summer.
Where to Find Lessertia diffusa
Lessertia diffusa can be found in the Mediterranean region, including Spain, Portugal, Italy, and Greece.
Lessertia diffusa FAQ
What is the scientific name of Lessertia diffusa?
Lessertia diffusa
What is the common name of Lessertia diffusa?
Diffuse Lessertia
What is the natural habitat of Lessertia diffusa?
Grassland and open woodlands
Species in the Lessertia genus
Lessertia acanthorhachis,
Lessertia affinis,
Lessertia annularis,
Lessertia benguellensis,
Lessertia brachypus,
Lessertia brachystachya,
Lessertia candida,
Lessertia capensis,
Lessertia capitata,
Lessertia carnosa,
Lessertia cryptantha,
Lessertia depressa,
Lessertia diffusa,
Lessertia distans,
Lessertia dykei,
Lessertia emarginata,
Lessertia eremicola,
Lessertia falciformis,
Lessertia flanaganii,
Lessertia flexuosa,
Lessertia fruticosa,
Lessertia glabricaulis,
Lessertia globosa,
Lessertia harveyana,
Lessertia herbacea,
Lessertia incana,
Lessertia inflata,
Lessertia kensitii,
Lessertia macrostachya,
Lessertia margaritacea,
Lessertia microcarpa,
Lessertia mossii,
Lessertia parviflora,
Lessertia pappeana,
Lessertia pauciflora,
Lessertia perennans,
Lessertia phillipsiana,
Lessertia physodes,
Lessertia prostrata,
Lessertia rigida,
Lessertia spinescens,
Lessertia stricta,
Lessertia subumbellata,
Lessertia tenuifolia,
Lessertia thodei,
Lessertia tomentosa,
Lessertia contracta,
Lessertia villosa,
Lessertia macroflora,
Lessertia obtusata,
Species in the Fabaceae family