Silver leaf desmodium, Velcro weed (Desmodium uncinatum) is a weed species that is known for its rapid growth. This weed can be quite bothersome to us as it sticks to our clothes and pets, but it also poses a direct threat to wildlife. The reason for this is that the plant is covered in small hairs that have a hook-like shape at the end. It is important to thoroughly remove any seeds from your clothes and place them in a bag before disposing of them in the bin. Otherwise, you risk further spreading the seeds around your property. Flying insects often get trapped in its "velcro-like" structure and eventually die due to starvation. Additionally, small frogs can become ensnared by this weed and meet a similar unfortunate fate.
Identification: Silver leaf desmodium is a perennial legume with silver-green leaves. It has leaves that are a shiny silver-green color. The leaves are made up of three long, pointy leaflets with edges that have little teeth. When you look underneath the leaves, you'll see they have a shiny, silvery appearance.
Habitat: Silver leaf desmodium thrives in warm, tropical, and subtropical climates in areas such as Brisbane and the Sunshine Coast. It can adapt to various soil types but prefers well-drained soils. It is commonly found in disturbed areas such as roadsides, pastures, agricultural fields, waste lands, gardens and lawns.
Spread: This weed can spread in two ways: through seeds and stolons. The seeds have a tough outer coating, which helps them stay alive in the soil for a long time. The stolons, on the other hand, help the plant grow thick mats of vegetation, making it easier for it to spread and compete with other plants.
Prevention Tips
Early detection: Regularly inspect your property, especially in areas prone to weed invasion. Familiarize yourself with the appearance of silver leaf desmodium so you can identify it early on. Prevent the introduction of silver leaf desmodium seeds or contaminated soil to new areas. Be cautious when purchasing plants or soil from outside sources and ensure they are free from weed seeds.
Clean equipment: If you work with machinery or tools in areas where silver leaf desmodium is present, clean them thoroughly before moving to other locations. Seeds or plant fragments may stick on uncleaned equipment, leading them to spread. Please ensure you wear protective gloves, preferably long-sleeved pants and shirts and closed shoes when handling this weed.
Monitor and control: Regularly monitor your property for any signs of silver leaf desmodium. If you detect the weed, take immediate action to control its growth and prevent seed formation. Mechanical methods like mowing or slashing can be effective for smaller infestations.
Promote healthy competition: Maintain a healthy and diverse plant community to help suppress the growth of invasive weeds. Promote the growth of native or desirable plant species that can outcompete silver leaf desmodium.
Remember that effective weed control requires an integrated approach that combines prevention, early detection, and appropriate management techniques. By implementing these prevention tips, you can help minimize the spread and impact of silver leaf desmodium weed in your area.
If you are concerned that you may have silver leaf desmodium weeds in your lawn, do not hesitate to contact us today!