Showy Tick Trefoil - Desmodium canadense

Phonetic: des-MOH-dee-um ka-na-DEN-see

Showiest of the Tick Trefoils, Desmodium canadense is covered with bright purple pea-like flowers in the heat of mid-summer. A deep taproot makes this plant incredibly drought resistant. A member of the Legume Family, it improves the soil by adding nitrogen, and the seeds are used by a variety of birds and other wildlife. Loves clay and will grow on any moderately rich well-drained or slightly damp soil. Spreads by means of "stick-tight" seeds. The nectar, pollen, seeds and foliage of this species appeal to a number of insects, birds and mammals.

• Hardiness Zone:  3-7
• Native Region: BONAP Map
• BONAP Map Key Color Guide: Map Color Key
• Sun Exposure:  Full, Partial
• Flower Color:  Pink
• Bloom Time:  July, August
• Soil Type:  Medium
• Mature Plant Size:  3-5'H, 2-3'W
• Plant Spacing:  2'
• Host Plant:  Eastern Tailed Blue, Gray Hairstreak, Silver Spotted Skipper, Swarthy Skipper, 
• Attracts:  Bess, Birds, Butterflies, Hummingbirds
• Advantages:  Clay soil and drought tolerant, cut flower
• Landscape Uses:  Mass planting, meadows, wild flower gardens
• Companion Plants:  Black Eyed Susan, Goldenrods, Joe Pye Weed, Obedient Plant