Amor seco (Desmodium affine) is a perennial herb native to South America, known for its attractive trifoliate leaves and small, pea-like flowers.
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Moderate
50% intensity
Prefers bright, indirect light. Can tolerate some direct morning sun but avoid harsh afternoon sun which can scorch leaves.
Moderate
50% intensity
Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Allow top inch to dry slightly between waterings. Reduce in winter.
Well-drained
50% intensity
Moderate
50% intensity
Thrives in average room temperatures between 18-24°C (65-75°F). Avoid extreme fluctuations and cold drafts.
Moderate
50% intensity
Feed with a balanced liquid fertilizer every 4-6 weeks during the growing season. Reduce or stop in fall and winter.
Safety information from plant toxicity data
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Toxic for humans | No 0/5 intensity |
| Toxic for pets | No 0/5 intensity |
| Edible | No |
None
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Water regularly, keeping the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Allow the top inch of soil to dry out slightly between waterings. Reduce watering in cooler months.
Ensure good drainage to prevent root rot, especially during periods of active growth.
Prune to maintain desired shape and size, and to encourage bushier growth. Remove any dead, damaged, or crossing branches.
Light pruning can be done anytime, while heavier pruning is best done in late winter or early spring before new growth begins.
Propagate by seeds, which may require scarification or stratification before sowing. Stem cuttings taken in spring or summer can also be rooted in moist potting mix.
This method is often more reliable for obtaining true-to-type plants.
Repot young plants annually in spring, and mature plants every 2-3 years. Use a well-draining potting mix. Choose a pot that is only slightly larger than the current one to avoid waterlogging the roots.
Water thoroughly after repotting.
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Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of Amor Seco (Desmodium affine)
Where Amor Seco (Desmodium affine) is found
Density
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Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Division | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Fabales |
| Family | Fabaceae |
| Genus | Desmodium |
| Species | Desmodium affine |
Similar in genus Desmodium
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data
