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Description
Lespedeza Bicolor, also known as Bicolor Lespedeza or Shrubby Bush Clover, is a deciduous shrub that belongs to the Fabaceae family. It’s native to East Asia and can grow up to 6 feet in height and spread up to 10 feet wide. It’s a popular ornamental plant due to its beautiful pink and white flowers that bloom from late summer until early fall.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Fabales |
| Family | Fabaceae |
| Genus | Lespedeza |
Appearance
Lespedeza Bicolor has a shrubby growth habit and can grow up to 6 feet tall and 10 feet wide. Its leaves are small and green, with a trifoliate arrangement. The plant produces an abundance of pink and white flowers that bloom from late summer until early fall. The flowers are small and clustered, and they attract bees and butterflies.
Care Guide
Lespedeza Bicolor is a low-maintenance plant that can thrive in a variety of conditions. Here are some tips for caring for this plant:
- Water: Water the plant regularly, especially during hot and dry weather.
- Fertilization: Fertilize the plant in the spring with a balanced fertilizer.
- Soil: The plant prefers well-drained soil but can tolerate a range of soil types.
- Sunlight: The plant prefers full sun but can tolerate partial shade.
- Hardiness Zones: Lespedeza Bicolor is hardy in USDA zones 5-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Lespedeza Bicolor is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, here are some common issues to look out for:
- Aphids: These small insects can suck the sap from the plant and cause stunted growth and yellowing leaves. Use insecticidal soap or neem oil to control them.
- Spider Mites: These tiny pests can cause yellowing leaves and webbing on the plant. Use insecticidal soap or neem oil to control them.
- Powdery Mildew: This fungal disease can cause a white, powdery coating on the leaves. Use a fungicide to control it.
Habitat
Lespedeza Bicolor is native to East Asia and can be found growing in a variety of habitats, including fields, roadsides, and forest edges. It prefers well-drained soil and full sun.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Lespedeza Bicolor deer-resistant?
A: Yes, Lespedeza Bicolor is deer-resistant.Q: Can Lespedeza Bicolor tolerate drought?
A: Lespedeza Bicolor can tolerate some drought, but it prefers regular watering.Q: Does Lespedeza Bicolor attract pollinators?
A: Yes, Lespedeza Bicolor attracts bees and butterflies with its flowers.Q: How often should I fertilize Lespedeza Bicolor?
A: Fertilize Lespedeza Bicolor once a year in the spring with a balanced fertilizer.
Related Plants
- Lespedeza Capitata
- Lespedeza Thunbergii
- Lespedeza Virginica
- Lespedeza Sieboldii
References
- “Lespedeza bicolor.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=j410.
- “Lespedeza bicolor.” North Carolina State University Extension, plants.ces.ncsu.edu/plants/lespedeza-bicolor/.
- “Lespedeza bicolor.” The Morton Arboretum, www.mortonarb.org/trees-plants/tree-plant-descriptions/lespedeza-bicolor.
