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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