Prostrate Ticktrefoil

(Grona styracifolia)

Prostrate Ticktrefoil (Grona styracifolia)

/

return to results
Previous Plant Next Plant

/

Grona styracifolia image
scroll forward scroll backward
scroll forward scroll backward
Estimated Native Range
Species Map Help

Summary

Grona styracifolia, commonly known as Prostrate Ticktrefoil, is a deciduous perennial herb native to open woodlands and forest edges in Southeast Asia. It typically grows to a height of 3 feet (0.9 meters) and a width of 2 feet (0.6 meters). The plant features trifoliate leaves and produces showy, purple flowers in the spring, which are followed by distinctive lomentaceous seed pods that stick to clothing and fur, aiding in seed dispersal.

Prostrate Ticktrefoil is valued for its ornamental purple flowers and its ability to fix nitrogen in the soil, enhancing soil fertility. It is used in border planting, as ground cover, and for erosion control due to its spreading habit. It thrives in full sun to part shade and requires medium amounts of water. It is adaptable to a range of soil types, provided they have good drainage. While generally low-maintenance, it can be susceptible to fungal diseases in humid conditions. Gardeners should be aware that it may spread aggressively in optimal conditions.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

  • Plant Type: Herb
  • Height: 2-6 feet
  • Width: 1.5-2 feet
  • Growth Rate: Moderate
  • Flower Color: Purple
  • Flowering Season: Spring
  • Leaf Retention: Deciduous

Growth Requirements

  • Sun: Full Sun
  • Water: Medium
  • Drainage: Slow, Medium, Fast

Common Uses

Erosion Control, Low Maintenance

Natural Habitat

native to open woodlands and forest edges in Southeast Asia

Other Names

Common Names:

Scientific Names: , Desmodium styracifolium, Grona styracifolia, Hedysarum spinosissimum, Codariocalyx conicus, Desmodium celebicum, Desmodium strigillosum subsp. celebicum, Hedysarum conicum, Hedysarum decumbens, Hedysarum pilosum

GBIF Accepted Name: Grona styracifolia (Osbeck) H.Ohashi & K.Ohashi