Zornia orbiculata Mohlenbrock

Leguminosae

Common names

Zornia orbiculata

Description:

Perennial, herbaceous, 10-30 cm high; stems grow from crown, strong root system

Distribution:

Brazil, Paraguay, Northeast Argentina, North Uruguay.

Habitat:

Common in stony/sandy fields, road sides, along farm fences/sides. Prefers shallow soils slightly dry, well drained, fertile, pH 5-6; also near water streams, grass meadows. Growing peak in summer from mid-spring; up to 200 masl. Resists drought due to strong deep roots.

Use:

Poor forage production, but palatable and good regrowth, desired by cattle. Good potential for specific areas, resistant to overgrazing. In Africa, hay caused health problems to horses.

References:

Allen & Allen, (1981); Izaguirre & Beyhaut, (1998)