Nuttall's Ticktrefoil
Desmodium nuttallii
Last reviewed: June 2026
Light
part sun
Water
medium
Size
12"–36" H × 6"–18" W
Bloom
May, Jun, Jul, Aug
Native to
AL, AR, AZ, FL and 13 more states
Pollinators
bees, butterflies
Nuttall's ticktrefoil is a native wildflower that produces small pink to purple flowers from late spring through summer. This herbaceous perennial grows in an upright, somewhat open form and provides seasonal color in naturalized areas.
In an HOA neighborhood
Nuttall's 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.
- Wildflower appearance may look weedy to some
- Seeds stick to clothing and pets
- Can spread naturally through garden beds
Wildlife value
The flowers attract native bees and butterflies throughout the long blooming season. As a legume, it also helps improve soil nitrogen levels naturally.
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.
Does Nuttall's Ticktrefoil fit your yard? Open it in Pollinator Patch to check it against your sun, soil, and HOA-conscious filters.