Desmodium incanum – and a Back-handed Compliment

Desmodium incanum

This pretty herb grows amongst the grass on the sportsfields of the University of KwaZulu Natal and along the roadways of Manor Gardens. Brave little plant, for no sooner has it grown up, then the mower cuts it down to ground level. So I contend – its saviour is the Durban Parks Department, whose laxity at mowing our verges and pavements allows this plant to flower and seed another generation.

Graham Leslie McCallum