Desmodium glabellum
Common Names: ticktrefoil [1], smooth beggarlice [2]
| Desmodium glabellum | |
|---|---|
| Scientific classification | |
| Kingdom: | Plantae |
| Division: | Magnoliophyta - Flowering plants |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida - Dicots |
| Order: | Fabales |
| Family: | Fabaceae |
| Genus: | Desmodium |
| Species: | D. glabellum |
| Binomial name | |
| Desmodium glabellum (Michx.) | |
| |
| Natural range of Desmodium glabellum from USDA NRCS Plants Database. | |
Contents
Taxonomic Notes
Synonym: D. paniculatum, D. paniculatum var. dillenii (Darlington)
Variety: Meibomia paniculata (Linnaeus), Meibomia pubens (Torrey & A. Gray)
Description
D. glabellum is a perennial forb/herb of the Fabaceae family native to North America. [1]
Distribution
The native distribution of D. glabellum is along hte United States east coast, west to Texas, Oklahoma, and Kansas. [1]
Ecology
Habitat
The ideal habitat for D. glabellum is with partial sun and dry conditions. Soil that has a rocky texture is ideal. Savannas, rocky upland forests, edges of more wooded areas, thickets and limestone glades are common regions for D. glabellum to be found. [1]
Phenology
D. glabellum commonly flowers between August and October, the majority of budding occurring in September. [3]
Seed dispersal
The D> glabellum is a member of the pea family. It's pea pods or seeds have tiny hooked hairs on the shell that make them ideal for sticking to passing fur bearing animals for dispersal.[1]
Seed bank and germination
Firm seedbed is required for germination to be successful.[1]
Pollination
Bees are the primary pollinator for D. glabellum.[1]
Use by animals
Seeds from D. glabellum are eaten by birds, rodents, wild turkey, rabbits, groundhogs, and many livestocks. [3]
Diseases and parasites
White mold can occur on D. glabellum. Adult Japanese beetles will feed on the plant. [1]
Conservation and Management
D. glabellum has been placed on the special concern list for the state of Connecticut. [1]
