Desmodium paniculatum, commonly known as Panicled-leaf Ticktrefoil, is a perennial herb native to a variety of habitats including open woodlands, forest edges, and prairies across eastern North America, from Quebec to Florida and west to Texas, Nebraska, and Ontario. It typically grows up to 3 feet tall and features pinnately-trifoliolate leaves, which means the leaves are divided into three leaflets. From June to September, it produces small, light pinkish to lavender flowers that are arranged in loose, elongated clusters, adding a subtle charm to its surroundings.

Panicled-leaf Ticktrefoil is valued for its ability to fix nitrogen in the soil, which can improve soil fertility. It is often used in native plant gardens, meadow plantings, and for erosion control due to its extensive root system. This plant prefers full sun to part shade and thrives in well-drained soils, though it is adaptable to various soil types. While it is generally low-maintenance, gardeners should be aware that the sticky loments (seed pods) can be a nuisance as they readily attach to clothing and animal fur. Despite this, these loments are an effective means of seed dispersal, contributing to the plant’s propagation.CC BY-SA 4.0