Bush Clover Lespedeza thunbergii

Thunberg bush clover is a deciduous shrub in the Fabaceae (bean) family that grows as a fountain-like mound of arching stems.  It gives much needed interest and color to the late summer early fall garden.  The genus Lespedeza is a nod to the Spanish governor of West Florida (1784-1790)  Vincente Manuel de Cespedes and the species thunbergii is named abter  Swedish naturalist Carl Peter Thunberg (1743-1828).

Grow in full sun or part shade with a location in full sun producing the best flowering.  I will grow in a variety of soils as long as good drainage is provided.  Once established this plant is quite drought tolerant.  

Pruning should be done in late winter to early spring before new growth begins as this plant will bloom on new growth only. In areas with cold winters the top of the plant will die back.  Arching stems that reach ground level and continue to grow horizontally along the ground can set out roots where the nodes come in contact with the ground.  It will also reseed itself easily in the landscape.. 

Plant in small groups or mass plant in shrub or perennial borders.  Dot them along slopes or let the attractive flowers bring hummingbirds and butterflies into a cottage garden.  The graceful arching stems look great spilling over a garden wall or raised bed.  

Deemed a Plant of Merit by the Royal Horticultural Society.

Insects, Diseases, and Other Plant Problems:  No serious issues.  It can be weedy in some areas.