Desmanthus illinoensis, commonly known as Illinois bundleflower, prairie-mimosa or prickleweed. D. illinoensis is a perennial bushy tree, a Mimosoid species within the Fabaceae or Legume family. It is a common wild plant in many areas of the South Central and Midwestern United States. It can often be found growing on the sides of roads, needing full sun and plenty of water. Illinois Bundleflower plants grow 2 to 5 feet tall with attractive, fern-like foliage and the flowers are round, puffy and white. The seeds of D. illinoensis are a nutritious wild food source. The Land Institute in Salina, Kansas has done extensive research into the food uses of the seeds of this plant. Studies found the dry seeds composed of 38% protein, compared to 40% for soybeans. USDA Hardiness Zones 5 to 8.
Desmanthus Illinoensis seeds should be soaked for 12 hours in warm water prior to sowing into soil mix. Surface sow onto moist, well-drained seed compost. Lightly cover with soil mix. Ideal temperature is around 70°F. Germination should begin within 10-15 days. Even with optimal conditions, some seeds may have slow and sporadic germination. Established plants prefer any moist, but well-drained soil in full sun. D. Illinoensis plants are drought tolerant once established but will thrive best with regular watering during dry periods.
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All packages will be shipped with basic customs information such as; HS codes, VAT numbers, and properly labeled contents. Unfortunately, The Garden of Set is unable to provide phytosanitary certificates for orders at this time. It is the buyer’s responsibility to know local laws regarding the import of plants, seeds, and plant products into their country. It is also up to the buyer to provide any other customs forms or information required to import plants into their country. If packages get stopped by customs, The Garden of Set will not be able to provide a refund for the purchase. Most of the time packages make it to their destinations just fine, this is for the small minority of packages that get stopped without having all the proper customs information required by the country of import. Purchase at your own discretion.