229B-2-Desmodium-gunnii-fl-1-Marilyn-Gray.jpg

Desmodium gunnii

Southern Tick-trefoil

Prostrate scrambling perennial herb, sometimes rooting at leaf nodes.

Additional information

  • SynonymDesmodium varians var. gunnii
  • FamilyFabaceae
  • StoreyLower storey
  • Size0.2-0.5 m x 1-2 m
  • Plant groupingHerbs & Groundcovers <1m
  • LeavesDark green leaves on long stalks, divided into 3's, leaflets roundish, 10-20 mm x 4-15 mm, lightly hairy. Small leaf-like stipules at base leaves.
  • Flower colourPink
  • Flowering timeMost of the year esp. spring to autumn
  • FlowersLoose sprays to 15 cm long of pairs of pea flowers at the ends of branches. Pods densely hairy.
  • Bird attractingNo
  • Butterfly attractingNo
  • Frog habitatNo
  • Growing conditionsMoist soils in forests and woodlands. Dappled and semi shade.
  • Garden useA light scrambler which can form mats under established trees.
  • Commercially availableIndigenous nursery
  • Conservation statusLocally common within its preferred growing conditions
Photographer/s: 1-3, 5 Marilyn Bull ©; 4 Russell Best, NatureShare ©

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