seeds of Desmanthus illinoensis, Illinois Bundleflower

Desmanthus illinoensis, also known as Illinois bundleflower, is a plant species of the family Fabaceae. The plant’s synonyms include Acacia brachyloba, Acacia glandulosa, and Acuan glandulosa. Other names for the plant include prickleweed or prairie-mimosa. Desmanthus illinoensis has its origins in the Midwestern and Southcentral regions of the United States. The plant’s distribution is most prevalent in the United States. Desmanthus illinoensis can achieve a maximum height of 1.3 metres. The leaves are bipinnate and have between 20 and 30 leaflets each. Each leaf folds upon exposure to touch or hot sunny conditions. The flowers are ball-shaped, whitish-green and grow in clusters. The plant yields pods that are fibrous, flat, twisted, and, have a length of 25 mm. The pods present in the seeds are edible, and one can cook them given they are a rich source of protein. The leaves are useful in the making of tea which also doubles as an herbal remedy for itchy skin. Desmanthus illinoensis is a reliable source of other remedies that supposedly have antipruitic and ophthalmic properties. Such properties come into play in the treatment of trachoma. One can also count on Desmanthus illinoensis as an ideal plant for reclamation purposes. This ability derives from the plant’s nitrogen-fixing qualities as well as its tendency to reduce soil erosion. Desmanthus illinoensis grows best in fertile, well-drained soils that have an agreeable pH. The plant also thrives under direct sunlight but not so much in the shade.