Greenleaf ticktrefoil (Desmodium intortum)

Also known as: Greenleaf desmodium, Kuru-vine

Greenleaf ticktrefoil (Desmodium glutinosum) is a perennial herb notable for its trifoliate leaves and pink to purple flowers that blossom in mid to late summer. Unlike twining plants, it typically grows upright, reaching heights of 1-3 feet.

**Characteristics:**
- **Leaves:** Composed of three distinct leaflets.
- **Flowers:** Pea-like, varying in color from pink to purple.
- **Stem:** Known for being sticky, aiding in seed dispersal as seeds adhere to passing animals and humans.
- **Pods:** Curly, which also facilitates seed spread.

**Ecological Benefits:**
- **Soil Enrichment:** Engages in nitrogen fixation, enhancing soil fertility.
- **Attracts Pollinators:** Supports pollinators such as bees and butterflies.
- **Wildlife Support:** Offers food and habitat for birds and small mammals.
- **Erosion Prevention:** Its root system helps stabilize soil, thus mitigating erosion.

Greenleaf ticktrefoil is particularly valuable in ecological restoration projects due to its ability to thrive in various soil conditions and contribute to soil health and stability.

In This Article

Care Tips Water Sunlight Temperature Soil Fertilize Prune Propagation Repotting

Attributes of Greenleaf ticktrefoil

Lifespan

Perennial

Plant Type

Herb

Plant Height

0.3 to 1.0 meters

Spread

Spread can vary widely depending on growing conditions

Leaf Color

Bright green

Flower Size

0.5 to 1.0 centimeters

Flower Color

Purple

Images of Greenleaf ticktrefoil

Quickly Identify Greenleaf ticktrefoil

Identify Desmodium intortum by its trifoliate leaves, hairy stems, and small purple flowers. The leaves are typically bright green and the plant has a sprawling habit.

Scientific Classification of Greenleaf ticktrefoil

Phylum

Vascular plants

Class

Dicotyledons

Order

Fabales

Family

Legume

Genus

Tick clover

Species

Greenleaf ticktrefoil

Planting and Growing of Greenleaf ticktrefoil

Care Difficulty

Moderate

Watering Schedule

Every 4 days

Sunlight Requirements

Partial sun

Sunshine Duration

6-10 hours

Ideal Temperature

68-86℉

Soil Type

Potting Mix, Peat Mix

Soil pH

6.5-7.5

Fertilizer Type

Balanced

Pruning Season

Spring, Summer

Pruning Area

Branches, Leaves

Pruning Frequency

2 times a year

Repotting Season

Spring

Pot Type

Plastic, Ceramic

How to Water Greenleaf ticktrefoil?

Desmodium intortum prefers a moderate watering approach. Ensure the soil is saturated but not waterlogged, with about 500ml per session enough to thoroughly moisten the root system without creating standing water.

What are the symptoms of an underwatered Greenleaf ticktrefoil? ›

What should I do if my Greenleaf ticktrefoil is not getting enough water? ›

What are the symptoms of an overwatered Greenleaf ticktrefoil? ›

How to save an overwatered Greenleaf ticktrefoil? ›

What Are the Sunlight Requirements for Greenleaf ticktrefoil?

Sunlight Requirements: Partial sun

Duration of light: 3-6 hours

Prefers partial sun exposure. Ideal light conditions facilitate robust growth and health, promoting a vibrant appearance and reducing vulnerability to stress factors.

What are the best light conditions for Desmodium intortum? ›

How can I ensure Desmodium intortum gets ideal lighting? ›

What are the benefits of optimal lighting for Desmodium intortum? ›

What Is the Ideal Temperature Range for Greenleaf ticktrefoil?

Ideal Temperature: 68 ~ 86℉

The ideal temperature range for Desmodium intortum is between 68°F and 86°F. This range provides optimal conditions for growth and photosynthesis, ensuring the plant can thrive. Maintaining this temperature range helps in robust leaf and stem development, contributing to higher overall plant health.

What Soil is Best for Greenleaf ticktrefoil?

Soil type: Loam

Soil PH: 6.5 ~ 7.5

Desmodium intortum thrives in loamy soils which can hold moisture effectively while ensuring good drainage. This balance prevents waterlogging, promoting robust root development and overall plant health. Loamy soil is rich in nutrients vital for the growth of Desmodium intortum. This soil type supports vigorous growth by offering essential minerals and organic matter required for healthy plant development. The structure of loam soil allows for optimal aeration, which ensures the roots of Desmodium intortum receive adequate oxygen. This characteristic is crucial in preventing root diseases and encouraging strong plant vitality.

How to Fertilize Greenleaf ticktrefoil?

Fertilizer type: Balanced

Desmodium intortum thrives with moderate amounts of fertilizer. Liquid fertilizers should be diluted to half strength, and each application should provide approximately 0.5 to 1.0 liters per plant, ensuring the root zone is sufficiently covered without oversaturating the soil.

How to Prune Greenleaf ticktrefoil?

Pruning Time: Spring, Summer

Desmodium intortum thrives best when pruned during its active growing seasons, which are spring and summer. Pruning during these times stimulates new growth and can lead to a robust and lush plant. When pruning, focus on cutting back to promote new and vigorous growth. Removing approximately one-third of the plant's length is common, promoting a fuller and more vibrant appearance over time. More About Pruning Techniques→

How to Propagate Greenleaf ticktrefoil plant?

Propagate Time: Early spring,Late spring,Summer

Begin by soaking the seeds of Desmodium intortum in water for 24 hours before sowing. This helps to soften the seed coat and improves germination rates. After soaking, plant the seeds in a well-draining potting mix, covering them lightly with soil.

Select healthy, non-flowering shoots from the parent plant during late spring or early summer. Cut a 6-8 inch section from the shoot just below a node. Remove the lower leaves and dip the cut end in rooting hormone to encourage root growth.

Plant the cut end into a pot filled with moist, well-draining potting mix. Keep the cuttings in a warm, humid environment, ideally with a plastic cover, to retain moisture and promote rooting. Roots should develop in 3-4 weeks.

More About Propagating Techniques→

How to Repot Greenleaf ticktrefoil plant?

Repotting frequency: Every 1-2 years

Desmodium intortum should be repotted when you notice roots growing through the drainage holes or spiraling on the soil surface. These signs indicate that the plant has outgrown its current pot, leading to soil compaction and poor drainage, which could hinder root growth and nutrient uptake.

Select a pot with a diameter 1-2 inches larger than the current one. Ensure it has drainage holes to prevent waterlogging. A slightly bigger pot provides enough space for root expansion, encouraging healthy plant development while maintaining adequate moisture levels.

Opt for well-draining loamy soil rich in organic matter. This type of soil allows for optimal air circulation around the roots and retains moisture without becoming waterlogged, supporting vigorous growth and preventing root rot.