Desmanthus

Desmanthus is a genus of flowering plants in the legume family, Fabaceae. It comprises several species of herbaceous perennials and small shrubs that are commonly known as bundleflowers. The genus is native to the Americas, with most species occurring in North, Central, and South America, though some have been cultivated or introduced beyond their native range for agricultural or restoration purposes.

Desmanthus species are typically perennials with pinnate leaves and small, clustered flowers. Inflorescences can be elongated spikes or heads, often in white, yellow, or cream tones. Fruits are legume pods containing one or more seeds. The plants are generally adapted to warm climates and well-drained soils, and many tolerate drought and relatively low fertility better than many other forage legumes.

Ecology and habitat: They occur in a range of habitats, including prairies, savannas, and tropical grasslands. Desmanthus species are frequently used in grazing systems because they provide forage during hot seasons and can contribute to soil cover and erosion control.

Uses: The primary use of Desmanthus species is as forage for cattle, goats, and other ruminants. They are valued for their protein content and palatability, and some species are incorporated into pasture mixes, revegetation projects, and soil-improvement programs in tropical and subtropical regions.