Overview
Lespedeza capitata Michx. var. calycina (Schindl.) Fern. is a herbaceous plant belonging to the Fabaceae family. It is native to North America and is commonly found in the eastern and central regions, including the United States and Canada. It is also known by the common name of Roundhead bush clover.
Description
The Roundhead bush clover is a perennial plant that grows up to 3 feet in height. It has a rounded, bushy appearance with numerous upright stems that emerge from a central point. The plant has pinnately compound leaves that are arranged alternately on the stem and are composed of three elliptic to ovate leaflets, each up to 1 inch long.
The flowers of the Roundhead bush clover are arranged in dense, rounded heads that measure up to 1 inch across and are typically pink or purple. The blooms appear from late summer to early fall and are attractive to pollinators such as bees and butterflies.
Uses
Roundhead bush clover has a number of uses. It is commonly grown as an ornamental plant in gardens and landscapes due to its attractive flowers and foliage. It is also used in prairie restorations and erosion control projects due to its ability to fix nitrogen in the soil and its tolerance of various soil types.
In addition to its ornamental and ecological uses, Roundhead bush clover has also been used in traditional medicines. Native American tribes used the plant to treat a variety of ailments including kidney and bladder problems, respiratory issues, and to aid digestion.
Growth Conditions for Lespedeza capitata Michx. var. calycina (Schindl.) Fern.
Light Requirements: Lespedeza capitata Michx. var. calycina (Schindl.) Fern. prefers full sun to partial shade exposure for optimal growth. It can tolerate partial shade, but too much shade will reduce the overall plant growth and flowering.
Temperature Requirements: The preferred growing temperature range for Lespedeza capitata Michx. var. calycina (Schindl.) Fern. is between 50 to 85°F. The plant can survive mild winters and hot summers but extreme temperatures can affect its growth and development. Temperatures above 90°F can cause the plant to wilt while below 20°F can lead to plant death.
Soil Requirements: The plant prefers well-drained soils with a slightly acidic to neutral pH range (5.5 to 7.0). Lespedeza capitata Michx. var. calycina (Schindl.) Fern. can grow in a variety of soil types, including loamy, sandy, or rocky soils. However, it does not tolerate waterlogging and requires a moderate level of moisture for proper growth.
Cultivation Methods
Lespedeza capitata Michx. var. calycina (Schindl.) Fern. is a hardy and resilient plant that is relatively easy to cultivate. It is native to North America and can be grown in a variety of climates, from warm, humid regions to drier, cooler areas.
The plant prefers a well-draining soil with a neutral to slightly acidic pH. It can be grown from seed or propagated through cuttings. If growing from seed, it is best to plant in the spring or fall. Cuttings can be taken in the summer when the plant is actively growing.
Watering Needs
Lespedeza capitata Michx. var. calycina (Schindl.) Fern. prefers well-drained soil that is kept moist but not waterlogged. During periods of drought, the plant may need regular watering to prevent stress and promote healthy growth.
When watering the plant, make sure to wet the soil to a depth of several inches. Avoid getting the foliage wet, as this can promote fungal growth and lead to disease.
Fertilization
Lespedeza capitata Michx. var. calycina (Schindl.) Fern. does not require heavy fertilization. However, a light application of a balanced fertilizer in the spring can help promote healthy growth.
Avoid applying too much nitrogen, as this can cause excessive foliage growth at the expense of flower production.
Pruning
Pruning is not necessary for Lespedeza capitata Michx. var. calycina (Schindl.) Fern. However, removing spent flower stalks can help encourage additional blooms and keep the plant looking neat and tidy.
If the plant becomes too large or untidy, it can be cut back in early spring to promote new growth. Avoid pruning in the fall, as this can lead to winter injury.
Propagation of Lespedeza Capitata Michx. var. Calycina (Schindl.) Fern.
Lespedeza Capitata Michx. var. Calycina (Schindl.) Fern. can be propagated through seeds, cuttings or division.
Propagation through seeds:
The seeds of Lespedeza Capitata Michx. var. Calycina (Schindl.) Fern. can be sown directly in the field during the autumn season. The seeds should not be deeply buried in the soil, and a light covering of soil is enough. The germination period for these seeds is 7-21 days, and the seedlings should be thinned to a distance of 20-25 cm between plants.
Propagation through cuttings:
The hardwood stem cuttings of Lespedeza Capitata Michx. var. Calycina (Schindl.) Fern. should be taken during the dormant season, which is in late winter or early spring. The cuttings should be 10-15 cm in length, and the lower leaves should be removed. The cuttings should be dipped in rooting hormone before being planted in pots filled with a well-draining potting mixture. The pots should be covered with a plastic bag or kept in a greenhouse until the cuttings have formed roots.
Propagation through division:
The clumps of Lespedeza Capitata Michx. var. Calycina (Schindl.) Fern. can be divided in early spring or after the flowering season. The clumps should be carefully lifted from the ground, and the soil should be shaken off the roots. The clumps can be divided into smaller sections, each containing at least one shoot and a good root system. The divided sections should be planted in a well-draining soil mixture and watered well.
Disease and Pest Management for Lespedeza Capitata Michx. var. Calycina (Schindl.) Fern.
Lespedeza Capitata Michx. var. Calycina (Schindl.) Fern., commonly known as round-headed bush clover, is generally a hardy plant, but it can still be prone to certain diseases and pests. Taking preventative measures can help minimize any potential issues and keep the plant thriving.
Common Diseases
One common disease that can affect Lespedeza Capitata Michx. var. Calycina is powdery mildew. It is a fungal disease that appears as a white powdery substance on the leaves. To prevent powdery mildew, ensure good air circulation and avoid overhead watering. Fungicides can also be used to control powdery mildew.
Another disease that can affect this plant is leaf spot, which is caused by a fungal infection. Leaf spot appears as brown spots with a yellowish halo on the leaves. To manage leaf spot, remove infected leaves and stems, ensure good air circulation, and avoid overhead watering. Fungicides can also be used if necessary.
Common Pests
Lespedeza Capitata Michx. var. Calycina can also fall prey to pests such as aphids and spider mites. Aphids are small, soft-bodied insects that suck sap from the plant, causing distorted growth and yellowing leaves. Spider mites are tiny arachnids that feed on the sap of the plant, causing stippling and yellowing of the leaves.
To control aphids and spider mites, insecticidal soap or neem oil can be used. These are non-toxic options that can effectively manage both pests. Encouraging the presence of natural predators like ladybugs can also help control aphids.
Conclusion
Prevention is the key to managing diseases and pests in Lespedeza Capitata Michx. var. Calycina. Ensure good air circulation, avoid overhead watering, and remove any infected plant material. Insecticidal soap, neem oil, and natural predators can help manage pests if necessary. By taking these steps, you can keep your round-headed bush clover healthy and thriving.
