Taxonomy

Division:

Magnoliophyta | - Flowering plants

Family:

Fabaceae

Genus:

Desmodium

Species:

Desmodium strictum

Growth Characteristics

Life Cycle:

Perennial

Growth Habit:

Forb/herb

Height:

4-6 ft

Light Requirements:

Part Shade, Shade

Drought Tolerance:

Medium

Bloom Months:

jun, jul, aug, sep, oct, nov

Bloom Colors:

Purple, Violet

Native Range

United States: Alabama, Delaware, Florida, Georgia, Louisiana, Maryland, Missouri, Mississippi, North Carolina, New Jersey, South Carolina, Texas, Virginia

Host Plant for Caterpillars

Soil Requirements

Soil Type:

sandy, acidic, nutrient-poor soil

pH:

4.5 - 6.5 (acidic to slightly acidic)

Drainage:

excellent drainage required

Moisture:

dry to moderate

Notes:

commonly found in pine barrens and sandy scrub