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Description
Lespedeza Floribunda, commonly known as shrub lespedeza or bush clover, is a deciduous shrub that belongs to the legume family. It is native to eastern Asia, including China, Korea, and Japan. The plant can grow up to 6 feet tall and wide, with a rounded shape and arching branches. Its leaves are alternate, trifoliate, and green in color. During late summer and early fall, the shrub produces an abundance of pink, pea-like flowers that attract pollinators like bees and butterflies. The flowers are followed by small, dry seed pods.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Angiospermae |
| Order | Fabales |
| Family | Leguminosae |
| Genus | Lespedeza |
Appearance
Lespedeza Floribunda is a beautiful shrub that can add color and texture to any garden. Its arching branches and rounded shape create a graceful silhouette, while its green trifoliate leaves provide a lush backdrop for the pink flowers. The flowers themselves are small, but they are produced in large clusters that can cover the entire plant. The shrub blooms from late summer to early fall, making it a great addition to any garden that needs some late-season color. The seed pods that follow the flowers are also an interesting feature, as they add texture and contrast to the plant.
Care Guide
Lespedeza Floribunda is a relatively easy shrub to care for, but it does require some attention to thrive. Here are some tips on how to care for this beautiful plant:
Water
Lespedeza Floribunda prefers moist, well-drained soil. Water the plant deeply once a week during dry weather, and make sure to water the soil rather than the leaves to prevent fungal diseases.
Fertilization
Fertilize the plant in early spring with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer. This will help the shrub produce healthy growth and abundant flowers.
Soil
Lespedeza Floribunda prefers slightly acidic soil with a pH between 5.5 and 6.5. Amend the soil with compost or peat moss to improve its texture and drainage.
Sunlight
Lespedeza Floribunda prefers full sun to partial shade. Plant it in a location that gets at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day.
Hardiness Zones
Lespedeza Floribunda is hardy in USDA zones 5 to 9. It can tolerate cold temperatures down to -20°F (-29°C).
Common Pests & Diseases
Lespedeza Floribunda is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, it can be susceptible to leaf spot and powdery mildew in humid conditions. To prevent these diseases, avoid overhead watering and make sure the plant has good air circulation.
Habitat
Lespedeza Floribunda is native to eastern Asia, including China, Korea, and Japan. It grows in a variety of habitats, including open woodlands, meadows, and stream banks. The plant prefers moist, well-drained soil and full sun to partial shade.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Lespedeza Floribunda a good plant for attracting pollinators?
A: Yes, Lespedeza Floribunda produces an abundance of pink, pea-like flowers that attract pollinators like bees and butterflies.
Q: How tall and wide can Lespedeza Floribunda grow?
A: Lespedeza Floribunda can grow up to 6 feet tall and wide.
Q: What is the hardiness zone for Lespedeza Floribunda?
A: Lespedeza Floribunda is hardy in USDA zones 5 to 9.
Q: When does Lespedeza Floribunda bloom?
A: Lespedeza Floribunda blooms from late summer to early fall.
Related Plants
- Lespedeza bicolor
- Lespedeza cuneata
- Lespedeza thunbergii
- Lespedeza violacea
References
- “Lespedeza floribunda.” Missouri Botanical Garden. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=l280
- “Shrub Lespedeza.” University of Illinois Extension. https://extension.illinois.edu/shrub-lespedeza
- “Lespedeza Floribunda.” Gardenia. https://www.gardenia.net/plant/lespedeza-floribunda
