Largebract Ticktrefoil
Desmodium cuspidatum
Last reviewed: June 2026
Light
part sun
Water
medium
Size
24"–48" H × 12"–24" W
Bloom
Jun, Jul, Aug
Native to
AL, FL, IA, IL and 14 more states
Pollinators
bees, butterflies
Largebract ticktrefoil is a native perennial that grows 2-4 feet tall with compound leaves and small pink to purple flowers in summer. This legume adds nitrogen to the soil and provides a naturalistic appearance in partial sun locations. The plant dies back in winter and returns each spring.
In an HOA neighborhood
Largebract 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.
- Has a wild, weedy appearance
- Seeds can stick to clothing and pets
- Dies back completely in winter leaving bare spots
Wildlife value
Host plant for Silver-spotted Skipper, Hoary Edge Skipper.
The summer flowers attract native bees and butterflies for nectar. As a native legume, it serves as a host plant for some butterfly caterpillars and provides seeds for birds.
Common questions
- How much sun does Largebract Ticktrefoil need?
- Largebract Ticktrefoil grows best in part sun conditions.
- When does Largebract Ticktrefoil bloom?
- Largebract Ticktrefoil blooms in June, July, and August.
- Where is Largebract Ticktrefoil native?
- Largebract Ticktrefoil (Desmodium cuspidatum) is native to AL, FL, IA, IL and 14 more states, per the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists.
- What butterflies or moths does Largebract Ticktrefoil host?
- Largebract Ticktrefoil is a larval host plant for Silver-spotted Skipper and Hoary Edge Skipper.
- Is Largebract Ticktrefoil HOA-friendly?
- Largebract 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 Largebract Ticktrefoil? Add it to your garden in Pollinator Patch to track it and get season-by-season care guidance.
Not sure where to start? Take the 2-minute yard quiz