Desmodium

Starr 030405-0017 Desmodium intortum

Starr 020803-0111 Desmodium triflorum

Seeds of Desmodium sp. on shoe

Ougeinia dalbergioides Bra23

Lespedeza thunbergii2

Desmodium is a genus of flowering plants in the Fabaceae family, which is commonly known as the legume, pea, or bean family. This genus includes approximately 350 species of herbs, shrubs, and small trees. Desmodium species are found in a variety of habitats, including tropical rainforests, temperate zones, and grassland ecosystems across the world. They are particularly prevalent in the Americas, Africa, and Asia. Desmodium plants are known for their compound leaves, small, often purple, pink, or white flowers, and distinctive seed pods that cling to animals and clothing, which aids in their dispersal.

Description

Desmodium species vary significantly in size and form, ranging from small herbs to larger shrubs and occasionally small trees. They typically have trifoliate leaves, which means each leaf is divided into three leaflets. The flowers of Desmodium are generally small and arranged in racemes or panicles, with colors ranging from purple and pink to white. One of the notable features of many Desmodium species is their lomentaceous fruit, a type of seed pod that breaks into segments. These segments are equipped with tiny hooks or barbs that facilitate their attachment to passing animals, thus aiding in seed dispersal.

Ecology

Desmodium species play a significant role in their ecosystems. They are important for soil health due to their ability to fix nitrogen in the soil, a characteristic trait of many members of the Fabaceae family. This nitrogen fixation is facilitated by a symbiotic relationship with rhizobia bacteria in their root nodules. Furthermore, Desmodium species are a source of food for various insects and animals. Their flowers are pollinated by a range of insects, including bees and butterflies, while the plants themselves can serve as fodder for livestock.

Uses

Several Desmodium species are utilized in traditional medicine for their purported health benefits. They have been used to treat a variety of ailments, including fever, asthma, and disorders of the digestive system. In addition, some species are researched for their potential anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties. Desmodium is also valued in agriculture as a cover crop due to its nitrogen-fixing ability, which can improve soil fertility and structure. Furthermore, its dense growth can help suppress weeds and prevent soil erosion.

Selected Species

• Desmodium gangeticum – A species widely used in traditional medicine.
• Desmodium triflorum – Commonly known as three-flower beggarweed, used as a ground cover and forage plant.
• Desmodium gyrans – Known for its rapid leaf movements in response to touch or changes in light.

Conservation

While many Desmodium species are common and not considered at risk, habitat destruction and overharvesting for medicinal use have placed some species under threat. Conservation efforts are necessary to ensure the survival of these species in their natural habitats.