Skip to main content

Hairy Small-leaf Ticktrefoil

Desmodium ciliare

Last reviewed: June 2026

Hairy Small-leaf Ticktrefoil (Desmodium ciliare)
Photo: no rights reserved, uploaded by Alan Weakley

Light

part sun

Water

medium

Size

12"–24" H × 6"–12" W

Bloom

Jul, Aug, Sep

Native to

AL, FL, GA, IL and 15 more states

Pollinators

bees, butterflies

Browse plants for this ecoregion

Central Oklahoma/Texas PlainsTexas Blackland PrairiesEast Central Texas PlainsWestern Gulf Coastal PlainSouth Central Plains

Hairy small-leaf ticktrefoil is a compact native perennial with small compound leaves and delicate pink to purple flower spikes that bloom from July through September. This low-growing plant forms neat clumps and produces small seed pods that stick to clothing and pet fur. It thrives in partial sun with average moisture and provides consistent summer color.

In an HOA neighborhood

Hairy Small-leaf Ticktrefoil takes more care to keep looking intentional in a front yard. Maintenance level: low. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.

Works well in: backyard only.

  • Seeds stick to clothing and pets
  • Can appear weedy or wild
  • May spread beyond intended areas

Wildlife value

The flowers attract native bees and butterflies throughout the summer blooming period. The seeds provide food for birds and small mammals.

Common questions

How much sun does Hairy Small-leaf Ticktrefoil need?
Hairy Small-leaf Ticktrefoil grows best in part sun conditions.
When does Hairy Small-leaf Ticktrefoil bloom?
Hairy Small-leaf Ticktrefoil blooms in July, August, and September.
Where is Hairy Small-leaf Ticktrefoil native?
Hairy Small-leaf Ticktrefoil (Desmodium ciliare) is native to AL, FL, GA, IL and 15 more states, per the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists.
What pollinators does Hairy Small-leaf Ticktrefoil attract?
Hairy Small-leaf Ticktrefoil draws bees and butterflies.
Is Hairy Small-leaf Ticktrefoil HOA-friendly?
Hairy Small-leaf Ticktrefoil takes more care to look intentional in a front yard. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.

Native range data from the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists. Pollinator and host plant associations compiled from GBIF, iNaturalist, and published ecological literature.

Ready to grow Hairy Small-leaf Ticktrefoil? Add it to your garden in Pollinator Patch to track it and get season-by-season care guidance.

Add this plant to your garden
iPhone appAndroid app

Not sure where to start? Take the 2-minute yard quiz