Greenleaf Desmodium Plant Care

Greenleaf Desmodium (Desmodium intortum) belongs to the Fabaceae family within the Desmodium genus. Greenleaf Desmodium is native to Mexico, Central America, northern South America, the Galápagos, Haiti and Jamaica. Greenleaf Desmodium is also known as Beggar's Ticks, Green Tick Clover, Desmodium adhaesivum.

Greenleaf Desmodium displays a spreading, low-growing perennial growth habit, reaching up to 1.5 ft tall with a spread of approximately 2 ft. Greenleaf Desmodium produces small, pea-like flowers in shades of pink, purple, or white.

Leaf size: approximately 3 inches.

Desmodium intortum requires watering every 7–10 days. Allow the top layer of soil to dry between waterings to prevent root rot. Reduce watering frequency during winter when growth slows.

Greenleaf Desmodium thrives in bright indirect to full sun. Avoid placing Greenleaf Desmodium in direct, harsh sunlight for extended periods, as this can scorch the foliage.

Desmodium intortum grows best at temperatures of 60–80°F. Greenleaf Desmodium prefers humidity levels of 40–70%.

Well-draining loamy soil with added organic matter. Good drainage is essential for Greenleaf Desmodium to prevent waterlogging, which leads to root rot and fungal issues.

Feed Greenleaf Desmodium every 6 months during the growing season (spring and summer) with a balanced fertilizer diluted to the strength on the label.

Pause feeding in autumn and winter, when growth slows, and never fertilize dry soil — water first.

The PlantoScan app can remind you when to water and when to fertilize each plant.

Repot every 1-2 years in spring. Choose a pot one size larger than the current container, and ensure it has drainage holes to allow excess water to escape.

Greenleaf Desmodium can be propagated through seeds, division of roots, stem cuttings. Similar propagation techniques also apply to showy tick-trefoil plant care, which shares the same genus.

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Greenleaf Desmodium is susceptible to aphids, spider mites, whiteflies. Inspect the foliage regularly, especially along leaf undersides and stems. Treat infestations promptly with insecticidal soap or neem oil to prevent spread.

Yellow leaves, brown tips or drooping? See common plant problems and how to fix them.

Greenleaf Desmodium grows outdoors in USDA Zone 10a – 12b. It survives winters down to planting zone 10a. Greenleaf Desmodium is native to Mexico, Central America, northern South America, the Galápagos, Haiti and Jamaica. In cooler regions, grow Greenleaf Desmodium as a houseplant or bring it indoors before the first frost.