Desmodium elegans

Physical Characteristics

Desmodium elegans is a deciduous Shrub growing to 1.5 m (5ft) by 1.5 m (5ft). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 6. It is in flower from August to October, and the seeds ripen from September to November. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Insects. It can fix Nitrogen. Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils and prefers well-drained soil. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils. It cannot grow in the shade. It prefers moist soil.

Distribution

E. Asia - Himalayas to W. China.

Habitats

Woodland Garden Sunny Edge;

Edible Uses

None known

Medicinal Uses

Carminative Cholera Diuretic Tonic The roots are carminative, diuretic and tonic[240, 272]. They are used in the treatment of bilious complaints[240, 243].The juice of the root, sometimes combined with the bark juice of Bauhinia malabarica, is used in the treatment of cholera[272]. The juice of the bark is used in the treatment of peptic ulcers[272].

Known Hazards

None known