Origin and Common Names
Lespedeza hirta (L.) Hornem. ssp. curtissii Clewell, commonly referred to as Hairy lespedeza, is a deciduous, herbaceous plant species belonging to the legume family (Fabaceae). The plant is native to eastern North America and is commonly found in dry, open woodlands, fields and along roadsides.General Appearance
Hairy lespedeza is a herbaceous plant that typically grows up to 1 metre tall, with a woody base and numerous stems that can reach up to 1.5 cm in diameter. The leaves are alternate, hairy and pinnately compound, with 3 leaflets that are elliptical or ovate in shape. The plant produces abundant white to pinkish-purple flowers with a typical pea-shape, blooming from August to October. The seeds are small, brown, and produced in a pod that splits when ripe to release them.Uses
Hairy lespedeza has several uses, including medicinal and ecological. The roots, leaves, and stems were traditionally used by indigenous North Americans as a treatment for a variety of ailments, including fever, diarrhoea, and rheumatism. It is also used in ecological restoration projects, as the plant is known for its nitrogen-fixing capabilities, which helps to improve soil fertility and provides habitat and food for pollinators and wildlife. In addition, hairy lespedeza is often used in animal husbandry as it contains tannins that have antihelminthic (anti-parasitic) properties, and is effective against gastrointestinal parasites in livestock animals. The plant can also be grown as forage for cattle, sheep, and goats, providing palatable and nutritious food. In conclusion, hairy lespedeza is a versatile and useful plant species that has gained both ecological and medicinal significance. Its unique biological attributes make it a valuable component of North America's ecosystem, while its wide range of uses in the field of agriculture and medicine showcase its practical value.Light Requirements
Lespedeza hirta ssp. curtissii requires full sun exposure for optimal growth. It thrives in areas with direct sunlight for at least six hours a day, making it a suitable plant for open meadows and fields.
Temperature Requirements
This plant grows best in areas with warm and humid climates. It can tolerate a wide range of temperatures, but prefers temperatures between 60°F and 80°F. In cooler temperatures, the plant may become dormant or experience slower growth.
Soil Requirements
Lespedeza hirta ssp. curtissii prefers well-draining soils with medium to low fertility. The plant is adapted to grow in various types of soils, including sandy, loamy, and clay soil. It can also tolerate slightly acidic to slightly alkaline soils with pH levels ranging from 5.5 to 7.5.
Cultivation Methods
Lespedeza hirta ssp. curtissii Clewell is a hardy plant that grows well in full sun to partial shade. It prefers well-draining soil and can tolerate a wide range of soil pH. The plant can be grown from seeds, cuttings, or divisions. It is a perennial plant that can grow up to 3 feet in height and 3 feet in width.
Watering Needs
Lespedeza hirta ssp. curtissii Clewell requires moderate watering. The plant should be watered deeply once a week during the growing season. Allow the soil to dry out between watering to prevent root rot. In the winter months, reduce watering to once every two to three weeks.
Fertilization
Fertilize Lespedeza hirta ssp. curtissii Clewell in the early spring using a balanced fertilizer. Follow the manufacturer's instructions for the appropriate amount of fertilizer to use. Avoid over-fertilizing, which can lead to excessive vegetative growth and reduced flowering.
Pruning
Prune Lespedeza hirta ssp. curtissii Clewell in late winter or early spring before new growth appears. Cut back the previous year's growth by one-third to one-half. Pruning will encourage the plant to produce more flowers and maintain a compact growth habit. Remove any dead or damaged branches throughout the growing season.
Propagation of Lespedeza hirta (L.) Hornem. ssp. curtissii Clewell
Lespedeza hirta (L.) Hornem. ssp. curtissii Clewell can be propagated through several methods including:
Seed Propagation
Lespedeza hirta (L.) Hornem. ssp. curtissii Clewell can be propagated through seeds. The seeds need to be collected from the plant at the right time when the seedpods have matured. The seeds need to be cleaned, dried, and stored properly before planting. The seeds can be directly sown in the ground or in seed trays. Seed trays can be used to germinate the seeds and once the seedlings have grown to a certain height, they can be transplanted into larger containers or directly into the ground.
Vegetative Propagation
Lespedeza hirta (L.) Hornem. ssp. curtissii Clewell can also be propagated through vegetative propagation. This is done by taking cuttings from the plant. The cuttings need to be taken from healthy plants and the best time to do this is in the spring when the plant is actively growing. The cuttings need to be about 4-6 inches long and should have at least two sets of leaves. The leaves on the lower part of the cutting should be removed so that they do not touch the soil when planted. The cuttings need to be planted in well-draining soil and kept moist. They can be transplanted once they have grown roots.
Division Propagation
Lespedeza hirta (L.) Hornem. ssp. curtissii Clewell can also be propagated through division. This is done by dividing the plant into smaller clumps. The best time to do this is in the spring when the plant is actively growing. The clumps need to be carefully separated without damaging the roots. The new clumps need to be planted in well-draining soil and kept moist. They can be transplanted once they have established themselves.
Disease Management
Lespedeza hirta (L.) Hornem. ssp. curtissii Clewell is generally a hardy plant that is relatively free from diseases; however, some diseases that may affect the plant include:
- Anthracnose: This disease is caused by the fungal pathogen Colletotrichum. Symptoms include circular or irregular-shaped spots on the leaves or stems that may be small or large, dark brown or black, and sunken. Leaves may start to yellow and fall off, affecting the plant's ability to photosynthesize. Management involves removing and disposing of infected plant debris and utilizing fungicides for severe outbreaks.
- Rust: The fungal pathogen Puccinia graminis causes this disease. Infected leaves develop small yellow or orange pustules on the underside, which eventually burst and release spores. This may lead to defoliation and stunted growth. Management involves removing and disposing of infected plant debris and utilizing fungicides for severe outbreaks.
To prevent the spread of disease, practice good sanitation by removing fallen leaves and debris from around the plant, avoiding overhead watering, and keeping the plant spaced well to promote good air circulation.
Pest Management
Lespedeza hirta (L.) Hornem. ssp. curtissii Clewell is relatively resistant to pest infestations, but some pests that may affect the plant include:
- Spider mites: These tiny insects suck the sap from the plant, causing leaves to yellow and drop off. Heavy infestations can lead to defoliation and stunted growth. Management involves regularly checking for mites, using insecticidal soaps or horticultural oils, and providing adequate irrigation to promote a healthy plant.
- Leafhoppers: These insects pierce the plant and suck sap, causing the leaves to yellow and curl. Management involves removing and disposing of infected plant debris, using insecticidal soaps, and utilizing sticky traps to capture adult insects.
Preventive measures that can help avoid pest infestations include maintaining good sanitation, planting in well-drained soils, avoiding over-fertilizing, and avoiding over-watering.
