Florida Beggarweed (Desmodium tortuosum)
Copyright: Fred Miller
The Florida Beggarweed is a lovely green annual that was brought to the southern United States to improve the soil and to use as forage or a cover crop. They have many tiny sticky hairs on their stems and leaves so they tend to stick to clothing and animals. If allowed to seed they will return the following spring. The seeds are sometimes interseeded between corn rows for an additional benefit for wildlife. Quail are very fond of the seeds throughout the winter months, while it is a host plant for many skippers in the warmer months.
Florida Beggarweed Specifications:
Color(s): Blueish purple
Sun Exposure: Sun, partial shade
Soil: Fertile, well drained
Average Height: 4 ft. to 8 ft.
USDA Plant Hardiness Zone: 8 to 10
