Ticktrefoil or similar broadleaf weed (Note: The plant pictured is actually a legume from the Fabaceae family, specifically Desmodium or a related genus, characterized by trifoliate leaves and pink/purplish pea-like flowers, rather than true grass/Poaceae)
Desmodium species · Warm-season / Perennial broadleaf plant
AI-generated identification · may be incorrect
Grass Category
Wildflower / Weed / Native forb
Hardiness Zones
USDA Hardiness Zones 4 to 9
Grass Family
Fabaceae (Legume family - not Poaceae)
Variety / Cultivar
Wild type
About This Grass
The specimen features trifoliate leaves with elliptical to lanceolate leaflets and delicate pinkish-purple flowers on a slender raceme, characteristic of ticktrefoils.
Blade Characteristics
Broad leaves composed of three leaflets rather than a single grass blade, smooth margins, prominent midrib, and net-like venation typical of dicots.
Root System
Taproot system capable of nitrogen fixation through symbiotic rhizobia bacteria
Growing Information
Origin Region
North America and widespread globally in temperate and tropical regions
Growth Habit
Stoloniferous and upright branching forb
Sunlight & Water Needs
Adapts well to partial sun to full sun, moderate drought tolerance once established, prefers well-drained loamy or sandy soils
Mowing & Maintenance
Not a turfgrass; controlled by broadleaf herbicides or manual pulling
Special Characteristics
Produces sticky seed pods (loment pods) that cling to clothing and animal fur; provides high-protein forage for wildlife
Ecological Information
Native forb providing excellent wildlife food value for birds and deer, fixing nitrogen in the soil, though sometimes considered a nuisance due to adhesive seed pods