Bare-Stemmed Tick-Trefoil

(Hylodesmum nudiflorum)

Bare-Stemmed Tick-Trefoil (Hylodesmum nudiflorum)

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Estimated Native Range
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Summary

Hylodesmum nudiflorum, commonly known as Bare-Stemmed Tick-Trefoil, is a deciduous perennial herb that is native to open woodlands, forest edges, and clearings in Eastern and Central North America. This plant typically grows at a moderate rate to a height of 2.5-3 feet (0.8-0.9 meters) and a width of 1-1.5 feet (0.3-0.5 meters). It features distinctive compound leaves and bears small, showy, purple or pink pea-like flowers that bloom in the summer, attracting pollinators such as bees and butterflies.

Bare-Stemmed Tick-Trefoil is valued for its ability to fix nitrogen in the soil, enhancing soil fertility. It is often used in native plant gardens, woodland gardens, and as part of naturalized areas. The plant is relatively low-maintenance, tolerating a range of soil types, including clay, loam, and sandy soils, as long as they have medium drainage. It prefers full sun to part shade and requires medium amounts of water, making it adaptable to various garden conditions. While generally free of serious pests and diseases, it can be susceptible to leaf spot and rust. Gardeners should be aware that this plant can self-seed and spread, potentially becoming aggressive in some conditions.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

  • Plant Type: Herb
  • Height: 2.5-3 feet
  • Width: 1-1.5 feet
  • Growth Rate: Slow, Moderate
  • Flower Color: Pink, Yellow
  • Flowering Season: Spring, Summer
  • Leaf Retention: Deciduous

Growth Requirements

  • Sun: Full Sun, Part Shade
  • Water: Medium
  • Drainage: Medium

Common Uses

Bird Garden, Butterfly Garden, Low Maintenance

Natural Habitat

Open woodlands, forest edges, and clearings

Other Names

Common Names: Nakedflower Ticktrefoil, Naked-Flowered Tick-Clover

Scientific Names: , Hylodesmum nudiflorum, Desmodium nudiflorum, Desmodium nudiflorum f. dudleyi, Desmodium nudiflorum f. foliolatum, Desmodium nudiflorum f. nudiflorum, Desmodium nudiflorum f. personatum, Hedysarum nudiflorum, Meibomia nudiflora, Meibomia nudiflora f. dudleyi

GBIF Accepted Name: