Greenleaf Desmodium (Desmodium intortum)

Greenleaf desmodium is a palatable fodder legume, to be grazed as long-term pasture, cut for hay or silage, as well as offered in a cut-and-carry system. Even though it contains tannins, it is palatable enough that it tends to be heavily grazed. As greenleaf desmodium produces abundant leaf material which decomposes gradually, it serves as a valuable permanent cover crop, such as in orchards. It will not withstand constant heavy grazing or persistent defoliation that removes the bud promoting sites and will drastically decrease the plant population during establishment. The general recommendation is that it’s managed at a cutting height of 7 – 15 cm. Greenleaf desmodium is sensitive to poor drainage, and soils with a high chlorine content, can restrict growth, especially in younger plants.

Seeding rate