Contents
Description
Lespedeza Hirta, also known as hairy bush clover, is a species of legume native to North America. It is a perennial herb that can grow up to 3 feet tall, with a hairy stem and leaves. The plant blooms in late summer, producing small pink to purple flowers that attract bees and butterflies. Lespedeza Hirta is commonly found in dry prairies, savannas, and open woods. It is a popular ornamental plant for gardens and landscaping due to its attractive flowers and foliage.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Fabales |
| Family | Fabaceae |
| Genus | Lespedeza |
Appearance
Lespedeza Hirta has a bushy growth habit with a hairy stem and leaves. The leaves are alternate, trifoliate, and oval-shaped, with a toothed margin. The plant blooms in late summer, producing small pink to purple flowers that are arranged in clusters on the stems. The flowers are about 1/4 inch long and have a distinct pea-like shape. The plant produces small, flattened, and hairy seed pods that mature in the fall.
Care Guide
Lespedeza Hirta is a low-maintenance plant that is easy to grow. It prefers well-drained soil and full sun to partial shade. The plant is drought-tolerant but benefits from regular watering during dry periods. Fertilization is not necessary but can improve growth and flowering. Lespedeza Hirta is hardy in USDA zones 4-9 and can tolerate a wide range of temperatures.
Common Pests & Diseases
Lespedeza Hirta is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, it can be affected by powdery mildew, leaf spots, and rust. These diseases can be prevented by planting in well-drained soil, avoiding overwatering, and providing good air circulation. The plant can also attract aphids, which can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Habitat
Lespedeza Hirta is native to North America and is commonly found in dry prairies, savannas, and open woods. It prefers well-drained soil and full sun to partial shade. The plant is tolerant of drought and can grow in a wide range of temperatures. Lespedeza Hirta is also commonly cultivated as an ornamental plant for gardens and landscaping.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Lespedeza Hirta a good plant for attracting pollinators?
A: Yes, the plant produces small pink to purple flowers that attract bees and butterflies.
Q: Does Lespedeza Hirta require a lot of maintenance?
A: No, the plant is low-maintenance and easy to grow.
Q: Can Lespedeza Hirta tolerate drought?
A: Yes, the plant is drought-tolerant but benefits from regular watering during dry periods.
Q: What is the hardiness zone for Lespedeza Hirta?
A: The plant is hardy in USDA zones 4-9.
Related Plants
- Lespedeza Capitata
- Lespedeza Bicolor
- Lespedeza Thunbergii
- Lespedeza Sieboldii
References
- “Lespedeza hirta.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed September 29, 2021. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=282597&isprofile=0&basic=lespedeza%20hirta.
- “Lespedeza hirta.” Illinois Wildflowers. Accessed September 29, 2021. https://www.illinoiswildflowers.info/prairie/plantx/hairy_blc.html.
- “Lespedeza hirta.” Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center. Accessed September 29, 2021. https://www.wildflower.org/plants/result.php?id_plant=lehi2.
