Desmanthus virgatus (L.) Willd.

Etymology Genus After bundle (Desmos) and flower (anthos), referring to the bundled flowers
Species Being twiggy; having straight slender twigs
Family Fabaceae
Synonyms Mimosa virgata L.
Common Names Slender Mimosa
Status Exotic: Naturalised
Form Shrub
Native Distribution America (United States to Argentina)

Diagnostics:

Desmanthus virgatus is a common species in the scrublands. The leaves resembles several species in the subfamily Mimosoideae, but its messy-looking white inflorescence, and the large nectary glands with a red border are unique.


Interesting Facts:

The Slender Mimosa has been suggested to be a promising feed for cattles in gaining protein mass (Sukkasame & Phaikaew, 1998).


Form of the Slender Mimosa.

Compound leaf.

Nectary at the end of the leaf.

"Messy" looking white inflorescence.

References

Sukkasame P & C Phaikaew. (1998) Utilization of Desmanthus virgatus as protein supplement for fattening cattle in southern Thailand. Integrated Crop-Livestock Production Systems and Fodder Trees, 157-159.


Author: Siyang
Posted: 2015-01-18 / Modified: 2017-12-25


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