Desmanthus spp.
bundleflowers
Overview
Desmanthus spp. is a genus of about 24 species of perennial herbs and subshrubs in the pea family, native to the warmer parts of the Americas, with several species in the central and southern United States. Plants form upright to sprawling stems 0.3-2 m (1-6.5 ft) tall, with bipinnate, mimosa-like leaves divided into many small leaflets that may fold when touched or at night. The small flowers are gathered into rounded, greenish-white heads at the leaf axils, giving the common name bundleflower. Flowering is followed by clusters of curved, flattened pods that hold hard, glossy seeds. Species grow in prairie, open woodland, roadsides, and disturbed ground, often on dry or seasonally moist soils, and fix nitrogen through root nodules. The seeds are high in protein, and some species are studied as forage and as perennial grain crops. D. illinoensis, the Illinois bundleflower, is a widespread prairie species. Vigorous growth and abundant seed mean some species spread readily.
Native Range
Desmanthus spp. is native to the Americas, from the central and southern United States through Mexico, Central America, the Caribbean, and South America. Species grow in prairie, savanna, open woodland, and disturbed ground in warm climates.Suggested Uses
Desmanthus spp. is planted in prairie restorations, native and pollinator gardens, and as forage or green manure on farms. The summer flowers support bees and other insects, and the seeds feed birds and small mammals. The nitrogen-fixing roots suit it to soil-improving plantings.How to Identify
Appearance
Size & Dimensions
Height1' - 6'6"
Width/Spread1' - 4'
Bloom Information
Flowering occurs through summer, roughly June-September, with the small white heads opening over a long period in warm weather. Pods ripen from late summer into autumn. In frost-free areas flowering can extend further.
Detailed Descriptions
Foliage Description
greenGrowing Conditions
Sun Requirements
Requires 6-12 hours of direct sunlight daily
• Full Sun: 6+ hours of direct sunlight
• Partial Shade: 3-6 hours of direct sunlight
• Full Shade: Less than 3 hours of direct sunlight