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Description
Lespedeza Virginica, also known as slender lespedeza, is a flowering plant native to the eastern United States. It belongs to the Fabaceae family and is a perennial herbaceous plant that typically grows up to 3 feet tall. It is an attractive plant that blooms in late summer and early fall, producing spikes of small pink or purple flowers.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Fabales |
| Family | Fabaceae |
| Genus | Lespedeza |
Appearance
Lespedeza Virginica has a bushy, upright growth habit and a woody base. It has slender, arching stems that are covered in small green leaves. The leaves are pinnately compound, with three leaflets that are oblong and finely toothed. The foliage is a dull green color and has a slightly fuzzy texture. In late summer and early fall, Lespedeza Virginica produces showy spikes of small pink or purple flowers. The flowers are pea-like in shape and are arranged in dense clusters along the stems. The flowers are followed by small, papery seed pods that persist throughout the winter.
Care Guide
Lespedeza Virginica is a low-maintenance plant that is easy to grow in most gardens. Here are some tips for caring for this beautiful plant:Water: Lespedeza Virginica prefers evenly moist soil, but can tolerate short periods of drought once established. Water deeply and regularly during the growing season, and be sure to provide good drainage to prevent waterlogged soil.Fertilization: Lespedeza Virginica does not require much fertilization, but can benefit from a light application of balanced fertilizer in early spring.Soil: Lespedeza Virginica prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. It can tolerate a wide range of soil types, but does best in slightly acidic to neutral soils.Sunlight: Lespedeza Virginica prefers full sun to partial shade. It can tolerate some shade, but may produce fewer flowers in shady locations.Hardiness Zones: Lespedeza Virginica is hardy in USDA zones 5-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Lespedeza Virginica is generally pest and disease-free, but can be susceptible to root rot in poorly drained soil. It can also be damaged by spider mites and aphids, which can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Habitat
Lespedeza Virginica is native to the eastern United States, where it can be found in open woods, meadows, and along roadsides. It prefers well-drained soils and can tolerate a wide range of growing conditions. It is often used in landscaping and is a popular choice for naturalizing in meadows and prairies.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Lespedeza Virginica a good plant for attracting pollinators?
A: Yes, Lespedeza Virginica is a great plant for attracting bees, butterflies, and other pollinators to your garden.Q: Can Lespedeza Virginica be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Lespedeza Virginica can be grown in containers, but will require regular watering and fertilization.Q: Does Lespedeza Virginica spread aggressively?
A: No, Lespedeza Virginica is not considered invasive and does not spread aggressively.Q: Can Lespedeza Virginica be propagated by seed?
A: Yes, Lespedeza Virginica can be propagated by seed, which should be sown in early spring.
Related Plants
Here are some other plants in the Lespedeza genus:- Lespedeza bicolor (bicolor lespedeza)- Lespedeza capitata (roundhead lespedeza)- Lespedeza cuneata (Chinese lespedeza)- Lespedeza thunbergii (Thunberg’s lespedeza)
References
– “Lespedeza Virginica.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed June 21, 2021. http://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=276289&isprofile=0&.- “Lespedeza Virginica.” Plant Database. Accessed June 21, 2021. https://pfaf.org/user/Plant.aspx?LatinName=Lespedeza+virginica.
