Illinois Bundleflower (Desmanthus illinoensis) Info
Considered one of our most important native legumes, this plant is a favorite snack of herbivores. The seeds are as high in protein as corn or oats. This plant is ruled by Mercury, which is associated with the nervous system. In the past, bundleflower was used by some Indian tribes for eye and skin problems. It is also known as spider bean.

How to grow it. This perennial member of the pea family can grow to four feet. A somewhat shrubby plant, it is a native to midwestern and southeastern US. The small white flowers appear in the summer. It cannot be propagated by cuttings. The seedlings are vigorous. Grow outside in full sun in somewhat dry soil.   General growing info. Top

© 2004, 2014 Harold A. Roth; No reproduction without permission