Lespedeza

Lespedeza × longifolia

Taxonomy

Division:
Magnoliophyta | - Flowering plants
Family:
Fabaceae
Genus:
Lespedeza
Species:
Lespedeza × longifolia

Growth Characteristics

Life Cycle:
Perennial
Growth Habit:
Forb/herb
Height:
4-6 ft
Light Requirements:
Full Sun
Drought Tolerance:
High
Bloom Months:
jun, jul, aug, sep, oct, nov
Bloom Colors:
pink, purple

Native Range

United States: Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Indiana, Louisiana, Massachusetts, Maine, Michigan, Missouri, Mississippi, North Carolina, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, South Carolina, Virginia, Wisconsin, Canada: Ontario

Host Plant for Caterpillars

Aristotelia lespedezae, Io moth (Automeris io), Hoary Edge (Achalarus lyciades), Northern Cloudywing (Thorybes pylades), Southern Cloudywing (Thorybes bathyllus), Zarucco Duskywing (Erynnis zarucco)

Soil Requirements

Soil Type:
well-drained, sandy or loamy soil
pH:
5.5 - 7.0 (slightly acidic to neutral)
Drainage:
excellent drainage required
Moisture:
dry to moderate
Notes:
native to open, sunny areas; tolerates drought