Etymology: Desmodium: Greek meaning "long branch or chain," probably from the shape and the way the seedpods attach
Plants: erect, perennial, 16"-40" tall forb usually forking at the base into 2 stems
Leaves: 3-parted, densely packed towards the top of the flowerless stem
Flowers: pink to purple, 5-parted, 1/4"-1/3" long, stalks 1/2"-1" long; inflorescence a branched cluster on the leafless stalk; blooms July-Sept.
Fruits: flat pod covered with clinging, hooked hairs and divided into 2-4 half-oval segments
Habitat: shade; woods; in rich soil
Conservation Status: Native

Floristic Rating: Coefficient of Conservatism = 7 USDA Plants Database: Federal Distribution and detailed information including photos Minnesota Dept. of Natural Resources: Rare Species Guide; description, conservation, photos, maps, etc. USDA Agricultural Research Service (ARS): Images of seeds, fruits, embryos, etc. Dan Tenaglia's The Missouri Flora: Fabulous photographs; detailed descriptions; color and leave arrangement key. David G. Smith's "Delaware Wilflowers": Beautiful photographs; descriptions Southwest School of Botanical Medicine: Britton & Brown Illustrated Flora - 2nd Edition (1913) "An Illustrated Flora of the Northern United States and Canada"