Fabaceae-Papilionaceae
Desmodium adscendens
Strong back
H
Not currently in the nursery
We can propagate most native species on request — get in touch to discuss timeline and quantity.
About
This creeping or ascending perennial herb typically grows up to 1.3 m tall, sometimes forming tussocks. It features three-foliolate leaves and produces terminal or axillary racemes of pink to blue or pale purple flowers. The fruits are small, sticky, green, bean-like pods, 10-25 mm long, covered in hairs, which aid in dispersal by clinging to animals and clothing.
Where it works in Kilifi
Well-suited for humid, shaded areas, this plant thrives in moist sandy loam soils found along the Kilifi coast. It can be used effectively as a groundcover, for soil improvement, or as green manure in a garden or landscape.
Growing notes
Once established, this species grows rapidly, forming numerous prostrate shoots. It prefers consistent moisture, especially during establishment, and can be propagated easily from cuttings for quicker growth. Caution should be exercised as its sticky pods can lead to it becoming invasive in some tropical regions.
Sources
Researched with web grounding from: worldagroforestry.org, antropocene.it, cgiar.org, scirp.org, sdiarticle5.com. Please verify with local knowledge before relying on these notes.