Lespedeza

Lespedeza × oblongifolia

Taxonomy

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

Growth Characteristics

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

Native Range

United States: Florida, Georgia, Maryland, North Carolina, New Jersey, New York, South Carolina, Tennessee, Virginia

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:
prefers open, sunny habitats