Sleepy plant
desmodium triflorum
Also known as: ["Three-flowered tick-trefoil","Creeping tick-trefoil"]
Overview
A prostrate, creeping herbaceous plant with trifoliate leaves and small pinkish-purple flowers, often found in moist, disturbed areas.
Benefits & Perks
["drought tolerant","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","low maintenance"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Fabales |
| Family: | Fabaceae |
| Genus: | Desmodium |
| Botanical Name: | Desmodium triflorum |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Herbs & Weeds
- Suitable Location: ground cover in tropical or subtropical gardens
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"15–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"8–11"}
- Misting: rarely required
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, loamy soil with organic matter; can tolerate sandy soils.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: very low
- Toughness Level: high
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically every 2–3 months or after flowering.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; avoid removing more than one-third of the plant at a time.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun to partial shade; 6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily, with some afternoon shade in hot climates.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense sunlight; protect from harsh midday sun; adjust placement based on seasonal light changes.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
very easyeasy
Sunlight
partial shade to full sun
Rotate plant for even growth; use sheer curtains in intense sun; avoid deep shade.
Watering
every 7–10 days
Water when the top inch of soil is dry; avoid waterlogging; ensure good drainage.
Soil
well-drained, sandy loam
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral, pH 6.0–7.0.
Ensure soil is not compacted; avoid heavy clay mixes; maintain consistent moisture.
Temperature
Thrives in warm conditions, 70–85°F (21–29°C); tolerates mild frosts but prefers stable warmth.
Avoid sudden temperature shifts; protect from drafts; maintain consistent warmth.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during active growth
Apply fertilizer after watering; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; use organic options for gentle feeding.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or division of runners; stem cuttings are more common for home growers.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a 4–6 inch cutting.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Plant in medium.
- Keep moist and warm.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm, humid conditions with indirect light; maintain 70–75°F (21–24°C).
Medium
Well-draining potting mix with perlite or sand; can also root in water.
Hormone
Optional but recommended for faster rooting.
Timeline
Roots develop in 2–4 weeks; new growth appears in 6–8 weeks.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, misting spray bottle.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; keep soil consistently moist; provide bottom heat if possible.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back tips or cut stems just above a leaf node to promote branching.
Pruning Plan
Light pruning to maintain shape and encourage bushier growth; remove dead or leggy stems.
Tools
Clean, sharp pruning shears or scissors.
Checklist
Sanitize tools; prune dead/damaged growth; shape plant; clean up debris.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before the active growing season begins.
Pot Size
Choose a pot 1–2 inches larger in diameter than the current one.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if needed; place in fresh soil with good drainage; water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot every 1–2 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for growth and soil refresh.
Checklist
Check root bound status; prepare new pot; use fresh soil; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water at base; ensure drainage; avoid wetting foliage.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring even moisture distribution without saturating the soil. Water early in the morning to reduce evaporation and fungal risk.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water lightly and frequently during active growth; reduce watering in winter to prevent root rot. Adjust based on rainfall and soil moisture.
Soil Improvement
Add compost or peat moss for fertility; mix in perlite or sand for drainage.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, yellowing leaves, stunted growth, or browning leaf edges.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, causes leaf drop, and may lead to root damage in prolonged cold.
Solution: Move to a warmer location; cover with frost cloth; reduce watering during cold spells.
Hot Stress
Leaf scorch, wilting, and reduced flowering due to excessive heat.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity; water deeply but less frequently.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check growth phase; dilute fertilizer; apply to soil; avoid foliage contact.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season; avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicDesmodium triflorum is not considered toxic to cats. There are no documented cases of toxicity in felines from exposure to this plant.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Dogs
Non-toxicDesmodium triflorum is not considered toxic to dogs. It is often included in pastures and forage mixes without adverse effects on canines.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Humans
Non-toxicDesmodium triflorum is not considered toxic to humans under normal circumstances. It is commonly used in traditional medicine and as a forage plant without reported toxic effects.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Desmodium triflorum toxic to pets?
A: No, it is non-toxic to dogs and cats.
Q: Does this plant require much care?
A: No, it is very low maintenance and tough.
Q: What are the common uses of Desmodium triflorum?
A: It is primarily used as forage for livestock and as a ground cover in some regions.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Fabaceae |
| Care: | very easy |
| Light: | partial shade to full sun |
| Water: | every 7–10 days |
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