Origin
Lespedeza ×acuticarpa Mackenzie & Bush (pro sp.) is a hybrid plant that originated from the crossbreeding of two species of Lespedeza, namely Lespedeza bicolor and Lespedeza violacea. It belongs to the Fabaceae or Leguminosae family, which is known for its flowering plants with pods or legumes.
Common Names
This plant is commonly known as bushclover or silky lespedeza. Other less common names include high plains lespedeza, plains lespedeza, and creekbank lespedeza. Its scientific name, Lespedeza ×acuticarpa, is derived from the Greek words "lespedeza" and "acuticarpa," which mean "grass-foot" and "sharp-fruited," respectively.
Uses
Bushclover is often used for ecological purposes such as erosion control and soil stabilization. It is also used as a forage crop for livestock, as it is highly palatable and nutritious. Additionally, it has been used for medicinal purposes in traditional Chinese medicine, for its purported anti-inflammatory, antiviral, and anti-tumor properties.
General Appearance
Bushclover is a herbaceous perennial plant that grows up to 1 meter tall, with a spreading or upright growth habit. It has finely hairy stems and compound leaves with three leaflets, which are elliptic to lanceolate in shape, and taper to a pointed tip. The leaves are dark green on top and paler on the undersurface. During the summer months, it produces small, pink or purple, pea-like flowers in long, upright clusters. These flowers give way to 1-cm long, flattened, brown-colored seed pods, with sharp-pointed tips. The root system is fibrous and relatively shallow.
Growth Conditions of Lespedeza ×acuticarpa Mackenzie & Bush
Lespedeza ×acuticarpa Mackenzie & Bush is a perennial plant that thrives in warm and humid environmental conditions. It belongs to the family Fabaceae and is commonly known as bush clover. The plant is native to eastern Asia and has been introduced in several parts of North America. Here are the growth conditions required for the proper growth of this plant:
Light
The plant requires full sunlight to grow and prevent legginess. It can tolerate partial shade, but it affects the quality and quantity of blooms. Therefore, it is important to plant it in an open area where it can receive full sun exposure for at least six hours a day.
Temperature
Bush clover grows well in warm temperatures ranging from 60°F to 80°F. It is cold-tolerant and can withstand temperatures as low as -10°F during the dormant period. During the growing season, maintain a constant temperature of 70°F to achieve optimal growth.
Soil Requirements
The plant thrives in well-draining soils and requires a soil pH between 6.0 and 7.5. It can tolerate a wide range of soils provided they are rich in organic matter and have good drainage. Plant the bush clover in soil that is moist but not waterlogged.
Overall, the Lespedeza ×acuticarpa Mackenzie & Bush is a hardy plant that can survive in a variety of conditions. However, it grows best in warm and humid climates that have optimal sunlight, temperature, and well-drained soils. By providing the required growth conditions, you can ensure the proper growth and development of this beautiful plant.
Cultivation of Lespedeza ×acuticarpa Mackenzie & Bush (pro sp.)
Lespedeza ×acuticarpa Mackenzie & Bush (pro sp.) prefers to grow in well-drained soil in full sun to partial shade. The plant requires a minimum of six hours of sunlight daily to bloom. The soil pH should range from 5.8 to 6.5, which is slightly acidic.
The plant prefers growing in slightly moist soil but can also tolerate drought conditions. However, it is important to note that overwatering can lead to root rot and other fungal infections. Thus, proper drainage is necessary.
Watering Needs of Lespedeza ×acuticarpa Mackenzie & Bush (pro sp.)
As mentioned earlier, Lespedeza ×acuticarpa Mackenzie & Bush (pro sp.) prefers slightly moist soil. The plant needs watering when the topsoil feels dry to the touch. Ensure that the water penetrates into the soil to a depth of at least six inches.
Watering the plant in the morning is recommended as it allows enough time for the leaves to dry before nightfall. Wet leaves at night can attract diseases and pests that can damage or kill the plant.
Fertilization of Lespedeza ×acuticarpa Mackenzie & Bush (pro sp.)
Fertilization is essential to promote healthy growth and abundant blooms. Apply a balanced fertilizer, such as a 10-10-10 fertilizer, in the early spring before new growth emerges. You can also apply a slow-release fertilizer in the fall.
It is important not to over-fertilize the plant as it can lead to excessive leaf growth and fewer blooms. Follow the manufacturer's instructions when applying the fertilizer.
Pruning Lespedeza ×acuticarpa Mackenzie & Bush (pro sp.)
Pruning is essential to maintain the plant's shape and promote new growth. Lespedeza ×acuticarpa Mackenzie & Bush (pro sp.) blooms on new wood, meaning that it produces flowers on new growth that emerges in the current year.
Prune the plant in late winter or early spring before new growth appears. Cut back the previous year's growth to about a foot from the ground, leaving a few buds on each stem. Remove any dead, damaged, or diseased wood to promote new growth.
During the growing season, you can remove any spent flowers to promote new blooms. This also prevents the plant from setting seed, which can reduce future growth and blooms.
Propagation methods of Lespedeza ×acuticarpa
Lespedeza ×acuticarpa (commonly known as bush clover or Japanese clover) can be propagated using various methods depending on the grower's preference and availability of resources. The following are the most common propagation methods:
Seed propagation
The most common method of propagating Lespedeza ×acuticarpa is through the use of seeds. The seeds should be collected from the parent plant during the autumn season when they are mature. After collecting the seeds, they should be allowed to dry for a few days before being stored in a cool, dry place until planting in the spring. To propagate using seeds, first, prepare the soil by removing weeds and debris. Then, sow the seeds shallowly, covering them with no more than 1/4 inch of soil. Keep the soil moist, and the seeds should germinate within two to four weeks.
Cuttings propagation
Another method of propagating Lespedeza ×acuticarpa is through the use of cuttings. This method involves clipping a small branch from the parent plant and planting it in a growing medium. The cuttings should be taken during the summer season when the plant is actively growing. Remove all leaves from the cutting, except for the top two or three. Dip the cutting in rooting hormone before planting it in a growing medium. Keep the soil moist, and within four to six weeks, the cutting should begin to grow roots.
Division propagation
Division is another method of propagating Lespedeza ×acuticarpa. This method involves dividing the parent plant into several smaller plants and planting them into separate containers. The best time to divide the plant is during the spring season before new growth begins. Remove the parent plant from the soil, and carefully separate the roots and stems into multiple groups. Ensure that each new plant has enough roots to sustain it, and then plant each group into separate containers with fresh soil and water thoroughly.
Disease Management
Lespedeza ×acuticarpa is susceptible to several diseases, including powdery mildew, leaf spot, and root rot.
Powdery mildew can be managed by pruning infected areas and promoting good air circulation around the plant. In severe cases, fungicides may need to be applied.
Leaf spot can also be managed through pruning and removal of infected leaves. Fungicides may be necessary in severe cases.
Root rot can be prevented through well-draining soil and avoiding overwatering. Infected plants should be removed and the soil should be treated with fungicides before replanting.
Pest Management
Common pests that can affect Lespedeza ×acuticarpa include spider mites, aphids, and Japanese beetles.
Spider mites can be managed through regular watering and misting of the plant to promote humid conditions. In severe cases, insecticides may be necessary.
Aphids can be controlled through the introduction of natural predators, such as ladybugs or lacewings. Insecticidal soap or horticultural oil can also be used in minor infestations.
Japanese beetles can be handpicked off the plant or trapped using pheromone traps. Insecticidal sprays may also be effective in controlling this pest.
