Desmodium Canadense

Description

Hundreds of rose-coloured, pea-like flowers occur in dense, nodding clusters at the tops of the stems, which are covered with velvety hairs. The effect is more attractive in colonies than with isolated plants, and tight plantings can help counter a tendency to sprawl. The nectar, pollen, seeds and foliage of this lovely plant appeal to a number of insects, birds and mammals, and it is a larval host plant for numerous species of butterflies. In the wild, the distinctively jointed fruits, called loments, break into segments that stick to clothes and animal fur, thus facilitating seed dispersal.

Sowing Advice

Sow immediately at any time onto preferably a soil-based compost, covering with fine grit to approximately their own depth. Germination MAY be quicker if kept at 15 to 20 degrees C. but many seeds WILL NOT come up the year they are sown, needing winter chilling after sowing, and ONLY come up with natural spring germination.

Key Facts