Bush Clover Lespedeza thunbergii
ABOUT
Commonly known as bush clover, this plant features a graceful, fountain-like form with arching stems that bear small trifoliate leaves, which are made up of three oval to oblong leaflets with a blue-green hue. In the late summer and fall, bush clover is adorned with dense racemes of small, pea-like flowers that are typically a deep pink or purple color, adding a burst of vibrant color to the landscape. The flowers are not only attractive to the eye but also to various pollinators such as bees and butterflies. As the season progresses, these blooms give way to small, flattened seed pods. The foliage of bush clover may turn an eye-catching yellow color, providing additional visual interest as the seasons change.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Fabaceae
Synonyms
Thunberg's Bushclover, Thunberg's Lespedeza, Sericea
Common names
Lespedeza bicolor var. japonica, Lespedeza thunbergii var. formosa.
ToxicityTo humans
Bush clover (Lespedeza thunbergii) is not commonly known to be toxic to humans. However, it is always advisable to exercise caution and avoid ingestion of any plant parts if its edibility and safety profile are uncertain. Ingestion of non-edible plants can sometimes cause gastrointestinal discomfort or other adverse reactions due to individual sensitivities. If ingestion does occur and adverse symptoms are noted, medical attention should be sought.
To pets
Bush clover (Lespedeza thunbergii) is not listed as a toxic plant to pets such as dogs and cats. While it is generally not considered dangerous, ingestion of plant material can potentially cause mild stomach upset in some pets due to the novelty of the plant matter in their diet. If your pet consumes bush clover and exhibits symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhea, or unusual behavior, it is advisable to consult a veterinarian.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Pink
Height
4-6 feet [1.2-1.8 meters]
Spread
4-6 feet [1.2-1.8 meters]
Plant type
Shrub
Hardiness zones
4-8
Native area
Japan
Benefits
General Benefits- Ornamental value: Lespedeza thunbergii, commonly known as Bush Clover, has attractive foliage and graceful arching stems that add aesthetic appeal to gardens and landscapes.
- Erosion control: Bush Clover has a dense root system that helps stabilize the soil and prevent erosion, particularly on slopes or embankments.
- Nitrogen fixation: Being a legume, it enriches the soil by fixing atmospheric nitrogen, thus improving soil fertility without the need for synthetic fertilizers.
- Drought resistance: Bush Clover is known for its ability to withstand periods of drought, making it suitable for xeriscaping and low-water-use gardens.
- Wildlife habitat: It provides food and habitat for various wildlife, including pollinators like bees and butterflies, which are attracted to its flowers.
- Seasonal Interest: With late summer to fall blooming flowers, Bush Clover offers visual interest during a time when many other plants have finished flowering.
- Easy propagation: This plant can be readily propagated from seed or cuttings, making it easy for gardeners to share and spread the plant.
- Limited maintenance: Bush Clover requires minimal care once established, making it appealing for low-maintenance landscapes.
Medical Properties- Diuretic: Lespedeza thunbergii is traditionally used to promote urination.
- Liver protection: The plant may have hepatoprotective effects, aiding in liver health.
- Antioxidant: Contains compounds that may act as antioxidants, helping to protect cells from oxidative damage.
- Cholesterol management: There might be potential in using it to help manage cholesterol levels.
- Diabetes management: It has been investigated for its potential to assist in the management of diabetes through glucose regulation.
- Anti-inflammatory: The plant has been used to reduce inflammation in various traditional medicine practices.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Lespedeza thunbergii, also known as bush clover, can be used as a natural dye, producing shades of green and yellow depending on the mordant used.
- Bush clover is sometimes planted for erosion control due to its robust root system which helps to stabilize soil.
- This plant is used in ornamental landscaping for its attractive late-summer purple flowers, which can enhance the aesthetic of gardens and parks.
- In some regions, bush clover is cultivated for forage and is appreciated by farmers for its ability to enrich soil with nitrogen, which supports the growth of other crops.
- The fibrous stems of Lespedeza thunbergii can be used in basket weaving, providing material for creating natural and sustainable crafts.
- Bush clover serves as a food source for wildlife; its seeds are particularly consumed by birds during the fall and winter months.
- The plant can be used in horticultural therapy, a practice where gardening is used to assist in the rehabilitation of individuals with disabilities or recovering from illnesses.
- In bonsai culture, the bush clover's elegant form and seasonal flowers make it a popular choice for creating miniature natural landscapes.
- Livestock such as sheep and goats may graze on bush clover, as it is a nutritious part of pasture mixes in certain agricultural systems.
- During fall, the bush clover's changing foliage provides visual interest, with leaves turning a range of colors from yellow to red, and is used for seasonal decoration.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Bush Clover is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Bush Clover is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Abundance: Lespedeza thunbergii, commonly known as Bush Clover, often grows prolifically, symbolizing abundance and plenty.
- Humility: Despite its lush foliage, Bush Clover has a delicate appearance, which can represent modesty and humility in character.
- Good Fortune: In some cultures, Bush Clover is considered to bring good luck and is associated with wish fulfillment and prosperity.
- Resilience: Bush Clover can thrive in various conditions and regrow after being cut back, symbolizing the ability to recover from hardship.
WaterBush clover should be watered deeply once a week, providing roughly 1 inch of water which is approximately 0.6 gallons per square yard. During periods of drought or extreme heat, increase the frequency to twice a week. It's important to avoid overhead watering to prevent leaf diseases; instead, use a soaker hose or drip irrigation at the base of the plant. In the fall, as the plant prepares for dormancy, you can reduce the amount of water slightly. Always ensure that the soil has good drainage to prevent waterlogging, which bush clover does not tolerate well.
LightBush clover thrives in full sun to part shade. The ideal location is a spot where it receives at least six hours of direct sunlight daily, which ensures vigorous growth and abundant flowering. If grown in too much shade, the plant may become leggy and produce fewer blossoms.
TemperatureBush clover is hardy and can tolerate a temperature range from approximately 0 to 85 degrees Fahrenheit. It goes dormant in the winter and can survive minimum winter temperatures down to about -20 degrees Fahrenheit. The ideal growing conditions for bush clover are between 60 and 75 degrees Fahrenheit during the growing season.
PruningBush clover benefits from annual pruning in late winter or early spring to maintain its shape and encourage thick, lush growth. Pruning should consist of cutting the plant back to within a few inches of the ground. This also serves to remove any dead or damaged wood and stimulates new growth for the upcoming season.
CleaningAs needed
SoilBush clover thrives best in well-drained soil with a pH between 6.0 and 7.0. A mix containing loamy or sandy soil enriched with compost or well-rotted manure promotes healthy growth. Avoid heavy, poorly draining clay soils to prevent root rot.
RepottingBush clover, being a robust perennial, doesn't typically require frequent repotting. Repotting every 2 to 3 years or when it outgrows its current container is sufficient to maintain its growth.
Humidity & MistingBush clover is adaptable to a wide range of humidity conditions and does not require high humidity to thrive. It can perform well in the average outdoor humidity levels found in its growing zones.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place bush clover in bright light, well-draining soil.
Outdoor
Plant in sun, well-drained soil, water moderately.
Hardiness zone
4-8 USDA
Life cycleBush clover (Lespedeza thunbergii) begins its life cycle as a seed, which typically germinates in the spring when soil temperatures rise. Upon germination, the seedling stage involves the development of a root system and the emergence of its first leaves. The plant then enters the vegetative growth stage, where it grows rapidly, producing stems and leaves, and can reach up to 5 feet in height. By late summer or early fall, Lespedeza thunbergii reaches the flowering stage, producing attractive pink, purple, or white flowers that are beneficial for pollinators like bees and butterflies. After pollination, the plant produces seed pods that dry and release seeds in the fall, ensuring the next generation of plants. Winter brings about a period of dormancy, as the plant dies back to the ground with its roots remaining alive to rejuvenate in the next growing season.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-summer
The most popular method for propagating Bush Clover, or Lespedeza thunbergii, is through seed sowing. The best time to sow seeds is in late winter or early spring, after the last frost has passed. To ensure successful germination, it's recommended to scarify the seeds, which involves lightly scratching or nicking the seed coat to allow water to penetrate more readily. After scarification, seeds should be soaked in water for 24 hours to further improve germination rates. Then, sow the seeds in a well-draining soil mix at a depth of about 1/4 inch (approximately 6 millimeters). Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged, and in a warm and bright position, free from the risk of frost. Germination can take several weeks, so patience is necessary for this process.
