Desmodium humifusum, commonly known as Trailing Tick-Trefoil, is a deciduous perennial herb native to open woodlands and forest edges in the Eastern United States. It typically grows to a height of 0.3 feet (0.09 meters) and spreads to about 0.2 feet (0.06 meters). This low-growing plant forms a mat-like ground cover with trifoliate leaves and produces small, delicate purple flowers during the summer months. The flowers are not particularly showy but are attractive to pollinators.

Trailing Tick-Trefoil is valued for its ability to stabilize soil and prevent erosion, making it a suitable choice for naturalized areas, woodland gardens, and as a ground cover in shaded sites. It is relatively low-maintenance, requiring medium amounts of water and thriving in soils with fast drainage. It prefers full sun to part shade conditions. While it is not commonly used in formal garden settings, its ecological benefits make it a useful plant for restoration projects and wildlife habitats. Gardeners should note that it can spread via rhizomes and may need to be managed to prevent unwanted naturalization.CC BY-SA 4.0