Desmodium canadense

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Desmodium Canadense 1 Desmodium Canadense Desmodium Canadense Desmodium Canadense Desmodium Canadense 3 Desmodium Canadense 2
Desmodium Canadense 1 Desmodium Canadense Desmodium Canadense Desmodium Canadense Desmodium Canadense 3 Desmodium Canadense 2

Desmodium canadense

Common Name: Showy Tick-trefoil

Showy Tick-trefoil is a robust, upright perennial that reaches 2 to 6 feet in height, with clusters of pink to purple pea-like flowers blooming from July to September. It is commonly found in prairies, open woodlands, and roadsides, preferring average to moist, sandy soils. As a nitrogen-fixing legume, it improves soil health and supports pollinators, including bees and butterflies. Its deep roots make it useful for erosion control, and it is a great addition to native plant gardens, prairie restorations, and pollinator-friendly landscapes.

Characteristics

Type Forb
Sun Full Sun
Soil Loam, Sand/Gravel, Calcareous
Moisture Dry, Mesic, Wet
Average Max Height (inches) 45
Suggested Plant Spacing (inches) 30
Bloom month(s) July, August, September
Bloom Color or Type Pink
Dominance Medium

Range Maps

Sowing Information

For most homeowners, the recommended method is to hand-broadcast seed at a minimum rate of 16–64 PLS (Pure Live Seed) ounces per acre. To ensure even coverage, broadcast the seed in perpendicular passes across the site. Grass seed should be broadcast first and lightly raked into the soil. Afterward, apply a light mulch layer using clean, seed-free straw or, preferably, our native Little Bluestem straw, available at our retail garden centers. Once mulching is complete, broadcast native wildflower seed over the area without raking it in. A good rainfall or thorough watering will provide sufficient soil contact for successful germination.

Planting Information

Dig a hole in your planting site slightly larger than the plant’s root system. When placing the plant into the hole, ensure that the soil line remains consistent with its original level in the pot. Fill in around the roots with the excavated soil, gently firming it to eliminate air pockets. Water the plant thoroughly the same day to promote successful establishment.