Desmodium canadense (showy tick trefoil)

Showy tick trefoil makes a statement planted in colonies, with its abundant deep pink blooms in mid-summer. Close spacing also helps keep the plants from sprawling. Reaching 2-6' in height, this very adaptable plant can spread, so be sure to plant it in a dry to moist sunny location where it has room so grow. This pretty legume adds nitrogen to the soil and attracts many types of birds, insects, and mammals.

BONAP Native Range Map (bright green indicates county native, dark green indicates state native)  

Photo credit: Dan Mullen Flickr