Overview of Lespedeza Bicolor
Lespedeza bicolor, commonly known as bicolor lespedeza, is a perennial plant belonging to the pea family, Fabaceae. This species is native to eastern Asia and some regions of North America. Due to its attractive appearance and easy-to-grow nature, bicolor lespedeza has become a popular landscaping plant in many parts of the world.
Appearance and Growth Habit
The plant grows up to three feet tall and can spread to a width of up to six feet. The growth habit of bicolor lespedeza is an open, spreading and arching form. The leaves are small (1.5 inches long), alternate, and compound with three leaflets. The plant produces attractive purple or pink flowers in late summer, which can be quite showy.
The plant's stems are reddish-brown in color, and its leaves are dark green, giving the plant an attractive appearance. In the fall, the leaves turn yellow before eventually falling off. The plant's long straggly branches make it an ideal urban landscaping plant, as it is low-maintenance and does not require regular pruning.
Uses of Lespedeza bicolor
Bicolor lespedeza has several uses, including landscaping, erosion control, and as a source of forage for livestock. The plant is often used as a ground cover due to its spreading and arching habit, which helps to control soil erosion. It is also an attractive plant for attracting hummingbirds and other pollinators to gardens, making it a popular choice for urban landscaping.
Some people also consume bicolor lespedeza for medicinal purposes, as it has been traditionally believed to have antispasmodic, diaphoretic and diuretic effects. Extracts obtained from the plant have been reported to have anti-tumor and anti-inflammatory activities.
Conclusion
Bicolor lespedeza is a low-maintenance plant that is easy to grow and maintain. It is a popular choice for landscaping due to its attractive appearance and usefulness in soil conservation. Its medicinal properties make it a valuable plant in traditional medicine and for scientific research.
Light Requirements
Lespedeza bicolor thrives in full sun but can tolerate partial shade. The plant requires a minimum of six hours of direct sunlight to grow and bloom properly. Lack of sunlight can lead to weak stems and reduced flowering.
Temperature Range
The ideal temperature range for Lespedeza bicolor growth is between 60 to 75°F (15 to 24°C). The plant can tolerate high summer temperatures up to 90°F (32°C). However, the plant cannot survive frost or severe cold temperatures below 20°F (-7°C), and the roots can be damaged by temperature fluctuations.
Soil Requirements
Lespedeza bicolor prefers well-drained soils with good fertility. The plant grows best in loamy or sandy soils with a pH range of 5.5 to 7.5. It can survive in moderately acidic to alkaline soils. The soil should also be rich in organic matter to support robust growth. The ideal soil moisture range is moderate to dry soil, and the plant cannot tolerate waterlogged soils.
Cultivation
Lespedeza bicolor is a hardy plant that grows well in average soils. The plant prefers well-draining soils with a pH range of 6.0-7.5. It grows in full sun to partial shade and requires at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily.
Propagation of the plant can be done from seeds or stem cuttings. Seeds should be sown in early spring, and the soil should be kept moist until the seedlings emerge. Cuttings should be taken during the growing season and should have at least 2-3 nodes.
Watering Needs
Lespedeza bicolor requires moderate watering during the growing season. The soil should be kept consistently moist but not waterlogged. The plant is relatively drought tolerant, but extended periods of drought can lead to stunted growth and reduced flowering.
Watering should be reduced during the fall and winter months to avoid waterlogging the soil, which can lead to root rot.
Fertilization
Lespedeza bicolor responds well to regular fertilization. A balanced fertilizer with an NPK ratio of 10-10-10 is ideal for the plant. Fertilization can be done in early spring, mid-summer, and fall.
It is recommended to apply a slow-release fertilizer to avoid over-fertilizing, which can lead to reduced flowering and growth.
Pruning
Lespedeza bicolor benefits from regular pruning to maintain its shape and vigor. Pruning should be done in late winter or early spring before new growth emerges.
The plant should be pruned back by about one-third of its size to encourage new growth and flowering. Dead and diseased branches should be removed as they appear to prevent the spread of disease. Regular pruning also helps to promote bushier growth and better flowering.
Propagation of Lespedeza Bicolor
Lespedeza bicolor is commonly propagated by seeds and stem cutting. Both propagation methods are relatively easy and yield good results.
Propagation by Seed
The seeds of Lespedeza bicolor can be sown directly in the ground during spring or fall. Prior to sowing the seeds, it is recommended to scarify them by lightly scratching the hard seedcoat or soaking them in hot water for about 20-30 minutes. Scarification helps to break the hard seed coat and allows moisture to penetrate into the embryo, which promotes germination.
Once scarified, sow the seeds at a depth of quarter to a half an inch in well-drained soil. Keep the soil moist by watering regularly but do not overwater the soil. Germination usually occurs within 7-21 days, depending on the environmental conditions.
Propagation by Stem Cutting
Lespedeza bicolor can also be propagated by stem cuttings during the summer or late-spring. Select new and healthy stems that are at least 6 inches long, and remove all leaves except for the uppermost leaves. Dip the cut end of the stem in rooting hormone, and plant it in a well-draining potting mix. Cover the pot with a clear plastic bag and place it in a shaded area. Keep the soil consistently moist but not saturated. After four to six weeks, the cutting should root and begin to produce new growth.
Disease and Pest Management for Lespedeza Bicolor
Lespedeza bicolor, also known as Bicolor lespedeza, is a flowering plant that belongs to the pea family. In order to maintain healthy plants, it is important to be aware of potential diseases and pests that may affect them. Here are some common issues and ways to manage them:Common Diseases
Some common diseases that affect Lespedeza bicolor include:Anthracnose
This disease causes irregular tan to red-brown spots on leaves, stems, and pods. To manage anthracnose, remove and destroy infected plant parts as soon as possible. Fungicides may also be used as a preventative measure.
Rust
Rust appears as small reddish-brown spots on leaves and stems, and eventually causes leaves to yellow and drop. To manage rust, avoid overhead watering and space plants further apart to improve air circulation. Fungicides may also be used as a preventative measure, but should be applied before symptoms appear.
Southern Blight
Southern blight causes plants to wilt and eventually die. This disease is caused by a soil-borne fungus and can be managed through soil solarization or the use of fungicides. Make sure to remove infected plant parts and avoid overhead watering to prevent the spread of the fungus.
Common Pests
Some common pests that affect Lespedeza bicolor include:Spider Mites
Spider mites are tiny pests that can cause leaves to turn yellow and drop. To manage spider mites, spray plants with a strong stream of water or use insecticidal soap or oil.
Japanese Beetles
Japanese beetles can cause extensive damage to plants by feeding on leaves and flowers. To manage Japanese beetles, manually remove them from plants and use insecticidal sprays or traps.
Aphids
Aphids are small insects that can cause leaves to curl and distort. To manage aphids, spray plants with a strong stream of water or use insecticidal soap or oil.
In conclusion, Lespedeza bicolor can be susceptible to various diseases and pests, but with careful management and preventative measures, it is possible to maintain healthy plants.