Illinois bundleflower

The native Illinois Bundleflower occurs primarily in NE Illinois, along the Illinois River valley in central Illinois, and along the Mississippi River valley in SW Illinois, favoring loamy or sandy alluvial soils. This perennial plant is occasional in these areas, while in other areas of the state it is uncommon or absent. Habitats include black soil prairies, moist meadows near rivers, openings in woodlands, limestone glades, areas along railroads, and areas along levees. Because of the relatively high protein content of its foliage, Illinois Bundleflower has been planted in pastures to feed cattle, and it can be used in prairie restorations to improve worn-out soil. However, it recovers poorly from wildfires. Relatively open areas with a history of disturbance are preferred.

Desmanthus illinoensis, also known as Illinois bundleflower, is native to the following states in the United States:

• Arkansas
• Illinois
• Indiana
• Iowa
• Kansas
• Kentucky
• Louisiana
• Maryland
• Michigan
• Minnesota
• Mississippi
• Missouri
• Nebraska
• New Jersey
• New York
• North Carolina
• North Dakota
• Ohio
• Oklahoma
• Pennsylvania
• South Dakota
• Tennessee
• Texas
• Virginia
• West Virginia
• Wisconsin