Silver Leaf Desmodium

Desmodium uncinatum, Fabaceae

Zones

9–11

Layer

Ground Cover

Lifespan

Perennial

Growth

Fast

Guild Roles

Nitrogen FixerGround CoverMulch Maker

Growing Conditions

Sun

Partial Shade (preferred)Full Sun (tolerated)

Water

Moderate (established)High (seedling)

Soil pH

5.5 – 7.5

Tolerances

Drought

Frost

Heat

Pest Resistance

Disease Resist.

Companion Plants

White fonioDigitaria exilis

Nitrogen FixationPest Deterrent

Corn MarigoldChrysanthemum segetum

Nitrogen FixationPest Deterrent

Slender Bush CloverLespedeza virginica

Nitrogen FixationBeneficial Insect Habitat

AlexandergrassBrachiaria plantaginea

Nitrogen FixationPhysical Support

Antagonistic Plants

Indian LovegrassEragrostis pilosa

Dense grass growth can limit water and nutrient availability for establishing legumes

Diverse-fruited beggarweedDesmodium heterocarpon

Congeneric Desmodium species often compete for similar soil conditions and nutrients

Uses

Functions

Nitrogen FixationLiving MulchErosion ControlLivestock Fodder

Edible Parts

Leaves

Common Questions

What zones does Silver Leaf Desmodium grow in?

Silver Leaf Desmodium grows in USDA hardiness zones 9 through 11.

Is Silver Leaf Desmodium a nitrogen fixer?

Yes, Silver Leaf Desmodium is a nitrogen fixer and can help provide nitrogen to neighboring plants in a guild or polyculture.

What are good companion plants for Silver Leaf Desmodium?

Good companions for Silver Leaf Desmodium include White fonio, Corn Marigold, Slender Bush Clover, Alexandergrass.

Design guilds with Silver Leaf Desmodium and see companion relationships visually.

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