Also known as Slender Bush Clover · Slender Bush-Clover · Virginia Lespedeza
Slender Lespedeza (Lespedeza virginica) is a perennial herb native to eastern North America, appreciated for its delicate foliage and small flowers. It offers habitat and
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Full Sun
100% intensity
Prefers full sun exposure for best flowering and growth.
Moderate
50% intensity
Water regularly until established, then allow soil to dry slightly between waterings. Drought-tolerant once mature.
Well-drained, sandy loam, clay loam
50% intensity
Moderate
50% intensity
Prefers moderate temperatures, generally hardy in USDA zones 4-8. Protect from extreme heat or cold.
Low
25% intensity
Minimal fertilization needed; it fixes nitrogen. Light feeding in spring if growth is poor.
Safety information from plant toxicity data
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Toxic for humans | No 0/5 intensity |
| Toxic for pets | No 0/5 intensity |
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Water Slender Lespedeza regularly during its establishment phase, especially in dry periods.
Once established, it is quite drought-tolerant and prefers well-drained soil, so allow the soil to dry out slightly between waterings. Overwatering can lead to root rot.
Pruning is typically done in late winter or early spring before new growth begins. Remove any dead, damaged, or crossing branches.
Light pruning can also be done after flowering to maintain a tidy shape and encourage denser growth in the following season.
Propagation is primarily done through seeds sown in the fall or early spring. Scarification or stratification may improve germination rates.
Cuttings can also be taken from semi-hardwood in mid-summer and rooted under humid conditions.
Repotting is rarely necessary for established plants as they are perennial.
For young plants started from seed or cuttings, repot them into larger containers as they outgrow their current ones, typically in spring or early summer. Use well-draining potting mix.
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Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of Slender Lespedeza (Lespedeza virginica)
Where Slender Lespedeza (Lespedeza virginica) is found
Density
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Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Division | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Fabales |
| Family | Fabaceae |
| Genus | Lespedeza |
| Species | Lespedeza virginica |
Similar in genus Lespedeza
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data
