Showy Tick Trefoil
desmodium canadense
Also known as: ["Canada Tick Trefoil","Rattlesnake Trefoil"]
Overview
A perennial legume with showy pinkish-purple flowers and distinctive seed pods that cling to fur or clothing.
Benefits & Perks
["wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","long-flowering","drought tolerant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Fabales |
| Family: | Fabaceae |
| Genus: | Desmodium |
| Botanical Name: | Desmodium canadense |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: garden bed in open areas with good air circulation
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"10–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"4–8"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Moderate to fast-draining.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, loamy soil with organic matter. Tolerates average garden soil.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Annually in late winter or early spring before new growth begins.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of old growth to rejuvenate the plant.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun to partial shade (4–6 hours of direct sunlight daily). Tolerates some afternoon shade in hot climates.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to intense sunlight to prevent scorching. In hot regions, provide afternoon shade. Indoors, place near a south-facing window with filtered light.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plants for even light exposure; use sheer curtains to filter intense sun; monitor for signs of sunburn.
Watering
every 7–10 days during growing season, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly but infrequently to encourage deep roots; avoid waterlogging; ensure soil dries slightly between waterings.
Soil
well-drained, loamy soil with moderate organic matter
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure good drainage to prevent root rot; amend heavy clay soil with organic matter; test pH if issues arise.
Temperature
Prefers moderate temperatures (60–75°F or 15–24°C). Tolerates cooler nights but avoids prolonged frost.
Protect from frost; water early to avoid heat stress; adjust care for seasonal temperature shifts.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during active growth with balanced liquid fertilizer
Fertilize sparingly; apply before new growth emerges; avoid nitrogen-heavy formulas to prevent excessive foliage.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or division of established clumps.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take 4–6 inch cuttings with nodes.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone (optional).
- Plant in medium.
- Maintain humidity.
Best Time: Early spring or late summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm, humid conditions with indirect light for cuttings; keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged.
Medium
Well-draining potting mix with perlite or sand for cuttings; moist, rich soil for division.
Hormone
Optional, but rooting hormone can improve success rates for stem cuttings.
Timeline
Stem cuttings may root in 4–6 weeks; division establishes quickly in the growing season.
Tools Needed
Pruners, rooting hormone, pots, well-draining medium, plastic bags (for humidity).
Quick Tips
Use sharp, sterile tools; keep cuttings out of direct sun; maintain consistent moisture.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Cut back leggy stems to a healthy bud or lateral branch; thin out crowded areas to improve air circulation.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushier growth, and remove dead or damaged stems.
Tools
Pruning shears, bypass cutters, gloves.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune before active growth; remove dead/damaged stems; shape as desired.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before new growth starts.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 2–3 inches in diameter.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim any circling roots; place in a slightly larger pot with fresh, well-draining soil; water thoroughly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the container. Desmodium canadense benefits from fresh soil and root space.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot size; use fresh soil mix; handle roots carefully; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust for weather conditions.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone. Water early in the morning to minimize evaporation and fungal issues. Allow excess water to drain away completely.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once a week during active growth, reducing frequency in winter. Adjust based on rainfall and soil moisture retention.
Soil Improvement
Add compost or well-rotted manure to enhance fertility and structure; mix in perlite or sand for drainage.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Chlorosis or wilting in excessive heat; stunted growth or leaf drop in cold stress.
Cold Stress
Low temperatures slow growth and may cause leaf damage or dieback if below 20°F (-6°C).
Solution: Mulch heavily around the base in winter; move potted plants to sheltered locations; avoid planting in frost-prone areas.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can lead to wilting, reduced flowering, and leaf scorch, especially in dry conditions.
Solution: Provide afternoon shade; increase watering frequency; use mulch to retain soil moisture; ensure good air circulation.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use balanced fertilizer; apply in spring; avoid over-application; water after fertilizing.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring. Avoid over-fertilizing, as Desmodium canadense is not heavy feeder. Dilute liquid fertilizers to half-strength if used.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicDesmodium canadense is not known to be toxic to cats. It does not pose a significant risk if ingested.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Non-toxicDesmodium canadense is not known to be toxic to dogs. It does not pose a significant risk if ingested.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Non-toxicDesmodium canadense is not known to have toxic effects on humans. It is generally considered safe for consumption.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Does Desmodium canadense attract pollinators?
A: Yes, it is highly attractive to bees, butterflies, and other pollinators.
Q: Is this plant suitable for a wildlife garden?
A: Yes, it is excellent for attracting wildlife due to its nectar-rich flowers.
Q: How does Desmodium canadense handle drought?
A: It is moderately drought tolerant once established, making it suitable for drier conditions.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Fabaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during growi |
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