Pointed-leaf tick trefoil (Hylodesmum glutinosum) is a herbaceous perennial that typically grows between one and four feet tall. Its slender, slightly hairy stems often lean or arch, giving the plant a relaxed, open form that blends easily into the dappled understory of upland woods. From early to mid-summer, it produces a sparse scattering of delicate, light pink to rosy flowers. These blooms, each about a quarter inch long, are arranged in an open, branching inflorescence.
The foliage is trifoliolate, meaning each leaf is composed of three leaflets. The terminal leaflet is noticeably larger than the two lateral ones, and all are broadly lanceolate to ovate, tapering to a distinct point—hence the common name. The leaf surfaces may be sparsely hairy, especially along the veins and margins, giving them a slightly rough texture when touched. This subtle texture, along with the plant’s understated floral display, makes it easy to overlook.
Hylodesmum glutinosum favors partially shaded environments such as upland woodlands, thickets, and forest edges. It thrives in mesic to dry soils that are rich in organic matter, often where leaf litter accumulates and decomposes slowly. It is commonly found in oak-hickory forests, maple-beech stands, and other mixed hardwood uplands, where it benefits from the filtered light and well-drained soils.
Its flowers attract native bees, small butterflies, and skippers, though the sparse bloom means it is not a major nectar source. Like other legumes, it hosts nitrogen-fixing bacteria in its root nodules, helping to enrich the soil and support neighboring plant communities. One of its most distinctive features is its seed dispersal strategy. The plant produces loments—segmented seed pods that break apart into sticky, one-seeded units. These segments are covered in minute hooked hairs that cling to fur, feathers, and clothing, allowing the seeds to hitchhike to new locations.
(July)