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Description
Lespedeza Leptostachya, also known as Bush Clover, is a deciduous shrub that belongs to the pea family (Fabaceae). It is native to the eastern United States and can be found in open woods, fields, and along roadsides. The plant can grow up to 3-6 feet tall and 3-4 feet wide. It produces beautiful pink to purple flowers that bloom from July to September. The plant is drought-tolerant and easy to care for, making it a popular choice for gardens and landscaping.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Fabales |
| Family | Fabaceae |
| Genus | Lespedeza |
Appearance
The Lespedeza Leptostachya plant has a dense, bushy growth habit with arching branches. Its leaves are small, ovate, and green in color. The flowers are pea-shaped and grow in clusters of 3-12 at the end of the branches. They are pink to purple in color and are about 1/2 inch long. The plant produces small, cylindrical pods that contain the seeds.
Care Guide
Lespedeza Leptostachya is a low-maintenance plant that is easy to care for. Here are some tips for taking care of your Bush Clover:
Water
The plant is drought-tolerant and can handle periods of dryness. However, it does need regular watering during the first growing season to establish its roots. After that, it only needs watering during extended periods of drought.
Fertilization
Lespedeza Leptostachya does not require regular fertilization. However, you can apply a slow-release fertilizer in the early spring to encourage growth.
Soil
The plant prefers well-drained soil with a slightly acidic pH level. It can tolerate a range of soil types, including sandy and loamy soils.
Sunlight
Lespedeza Leptostachya prefers full sun but can also tolerate partial shade. However, it may not produce as many flowers in shaded areas.
Hardiness Zones
The plant is hardy in USDA zones 5-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Lespedeza Leptostachya is not prone to many pests or diseases. However, it can be susceptible to root rot if planted in poorly-drained soil. It may also be affected by spider mites, which can be treated with insecticidal soap.
Habitat
Lespedeza Leptostachya is native to the eastern United States and can be found in open woods, fields, and along roadsides. It prefers well-drained soil and full sun but can tolerate partial shade.
Question and Answer
Q: How often should I water my Lespedeza Leptostachya plant?
A: The plant is drought-tolerant and only needs watering during extended periods of drought once established.
Q: What is the hardiness zone for Lespedeza Leptostachya?
A: The plant is hardy in USDA zones 5-9.
Q: What is the best soil type for Lespedeza Leptostachya?
A: The plant prefers well-drained soil with a slightly acidic pH level. It can tolerate a range of soil types, including sandy and loamy soils.
Q: What pests or diseases is Lespedeza Leptostachya susceptible to?
A: The plant is not prone to many pests or diseases. However, it can be susceptible to root rot if planted in poorly-drained soil. It may also be affected by spider mites, which can be treated with insecticidal soap.
Related Plants
- Lespedeza bicolor
- Lespedeza capitata
- Lespedeza cuneata
- Lespedeza procumbens
References
- “Lespedeza Leptostachya.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=275275&isprofile=0&.
- “Lespedeza Leptostachya.” North Carolina Extension Gardener Plant Toolbox, plants.ces.ncsu.edu/plants/lespedeza-leptostachya/.
- “Lespedeza Leptostachya.” PlantFiles, www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/shrubs/bush-clover/growing-bush-clover.htm.
