Origin
Lespedeza cytisoides Bertol. is an ornamental plant species originally from Japan, China, and Korea. It is a part of the Fabaceae family, which is commonly known as the pea family.
Common Names
The plant's common names include bush clover, shrub lespedeza, hairy bush clover, and Japanese clover.
Uses
Lespedeza cytisoides Bertol. has several practical applications in gardening. It is commonly used as a ground cover in gardens, thanks to its delightful appearance and low maintenance requirements. The plant can also attract a variety of pollinators to a garden, such as butterflies and bees.
In addition to its aesthetic value, Lespedeza cytisoides Bertol. has also been found to have soil improvement properties. It can fix nitrogen in the soil, which makes it an ideal option for soil improvement.
General Appearance
Lespedeza cytisoides Bertol. typically grows up to a height of 4 to 6 feet and has an upright, bushy habit. It has a finely branched stem that is reddish-brown in color, while its leaves are alternate, long, and narrow, with a bluish-green color.
The plant blooms from late August to October, producing fluffy pinkish-purple flowers that grow in small spikes. Its fruits are brown flattened pods that grow up to a length of 1.5 cm.
Lespedeza cytisoides Bertol. is a hardy plant that can withstand various weather conditions and has a robust root system that can help control soil erosion.
Lighting Requirements
The Lespedeza cytisoides Bertol. plant thrives in full sunlight and requires a minimum of six hours of direct sunlight every day to grow successfully. It does not tolerate shade and requires ample sunlight to photosynthesize efficiently.
Soil Requirements
The Lespedeza cytisoides Bertol. plant prefers well-drained soils rich in organic matter and nutrients. The soil pH should be slightly acidic to neutral, preferably between 6 and 7.5. It can grow in sandy, loamy, or clay soils, but the optimal soil type is well-drained sandy loam with a pH of approximately 6.8.
Watering Requirements
The Lespedeza cytisoides Bertol. plant requires consistent soil moisture to promote healthy growth, particularly during the first year of establishment. It is important to ensure adequate soil drainage to prevent the roots from becoming waterlogged. Regular watering during dry periods is also essential to prevent wilting and to promote healthy flowering.
Temperature Requirements
The Lespedeza cytisoides Bertol. plant can tolerate a wide range of temperatures, but it grows best in areas with warm summers and mild winters. It is suitable for USDA plant hardiness zones 5 to 8. The optimal temperature range for growth is between 60°F (15°C) and 80°F (27°C).
Fertilizer Requirements
The Lespedeza cytisoides Bertol. plant does not require a lot of fertilizer, but a small amount of balanced slow-release fertilizer can be applied in the early spring to promote healthy growth. It is essential to avoid overfertilization as it can lead to excessive vegetative growth and reduced flowering.
Cultivation of Lespedeza Cytisoides Bertol.
Lespedeza Cytisoides Bertol., also known as shrub lespedeza, is a perennial shrub with a height of 3-5 feet. It is native to Japan, Korea, and China, but it can grow well in various regions around the world. Here are some tips for cultivation.
Location and Soil
The plant grows best in full sun or partial shade environments. It prefers well-draining, slightly acidic soil. Prepare the soil by adding compost or organic matter before planting.
Watering Needs
While the plant is still young, water it frequently to promote growth. Once fully grown, the plant does not require much watering as it is drought tolerant. Water the plant when the soil is dry to the touch, but do not overwater as it may cause root rot.
Fertilization
Fertilize the plant in the early spring with a balanced slow-release fertilizer. Additionally, apply a layer of organic mulch around the base of the plant to provide nutrients to the soil as it decomposes.
Pruning
Prune the plant in late winter or early spring before new growth appears. Trim any dead or diseased branches and shape the plant to promote better air circulation.
Propagation of Lespedeza cytisoides Bertol.
Lespedeza cytisoides Bertol. is a deciduous shrub that belongs to the family Fabaceae. Propagation of this plant can be done through seeds, cuttings, and division.
Propagation by seeds:
To propagate Lespedeza cytisoides Bertol. by seeds, the seeds should be collected from the plant when the pods are dry and brown. The seeds should be sown in a well-draining potting mix and kept moist. The seeds will germinate in 14-21 days, and after that, they can be transplanted to a larger pot or directly to the garden.
Propagation by cuttings:
Propagation by cuttings is an easy and quick way to propagate Lespedeza cytisoides Bertol. Take 6-8 inches long cuttings from a healthy plant during the spring season. Remove the leaves from the lower half of the cutting and dip the cut end in rooting hormone. Plant the cutting in a well-draining potting mix, and keep it consistently moist. Roots will start to develop within a few weeks, and the plant can be transplanted to a larger pot or directly to the garden once it has developed a good root system.
Propagation by division:
Propagation by division is best done in the spring or fall when the plant is not in active growth. Dig up the plant and gently separate the roots into smaller sections. Each section should have some roots and shoots. Plant the divided sections in a well-draining potting mix or directly in the garden, and keep them consistently moist until they have established themselves.
Disease Management
Lespedeza cytisoides Bertol. is generally a hardy plant, but occasionally, it is susceptible to various diseases that can affect its growth. Here are some of the most common diseases that may affect the plant:
- Leaf spot: This fungal disease is usually characterized by yellow or brown spots on the plant's leaves. To manage this disease, remove affected plant parts and dispose of them properly. Avoid overhead watering and ensure that the plant is well-ventilated to avoid the buildup of moisture on the leaves.
- Root rot: This disease is caused by the fungus Phytophthora cinnamomi. It can lead to wilting, yellowing, and eventual death of the plant. To manage root rot, avoid overwatering, ensure that the soil has good drainage, and use fungicides when necessary.
- Anthracnose: This disease is caused by fungi in the Colletotrichum genus. It can result in the plant's defoliation, stunted growth, and death. To manage anthracnose, remove infected plant parts, avoid overhead watering, and use fungicides when necessary.
Pest Management
Lespedeza cytisoides Bertol. is also susceptible to certain pests that can damage its growth. Here are some common pests that might affect the plant:
- Spider mites: These pests are usually found on the undersides of the plant's leaves. They feed on the plant's sap, which can cause the plant to yellow and weaken. To manage spider mites, keep the plant well-watered and well-misted, use insecticidal soap or neem oil, and ensure that the plant is well-ventilated to avoid the buildup of moisture.
- Caterpillars: These pests can cause considerable damage to the plant by feeding on its leaves. To manage caterpillars, handpick them off the plant and dispose of them properly or use Bacillus thuringiensis (BT) insecticide.
- Japanese beetles: These beetles feed on the plant's leaves, causing significant damage. To manage Japanese beetles, hand-pick them off the plant and dispose of them properly or use a commercially available insecticide.
