Bicolor Lespedeza

lespedeza bicolor

Also known as: ["Bicolor Bush Clover","Shrub Leespedia"]

Family: Fabaceae Genus: Lespedeza Category: Shrubs

Overview

A deciduous shrub native to East Asia, valued for its attractive pinkish-purple flowers and hardy nature.

Benefits & Perks

["long-flowering","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","drought tolerant"]

Botanical Classification

Phylum: Magnoliophyta
Class: Magnoliopsida
Order: Fabales
Family: Fabaceae
Genus: Lespedeza
Botanical Name: Lespedeza bicolor

Plant Characteristics

Basic Information
  • Category: Shrubs
  • Suitable Location: outdoor garden bed in a sunny area, adaptable to hedgerows or as a specimen plant
  • Suitable For:
    Outdoor Landscapers Wildlife Supporters
  • Is Weed: No
  • Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
  • Climate: {"temperatureRange":"–25–40°C"}
  • Hardiness: {"zones":"3–8"}
  • Misting: rarely required, only if grown in very dry indoor conditions
  • Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent root rot.
  • Soil Type: Well-draining loam with organic matter; tolerates poor soils.
Maintenance Level
  • Maintenance Level: moderate
  • Toughness Level: moderate
  • Pruning Frequency: Annually in late winter or early spring before new growth begins.
  • Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of old growth to rejuvenate.
Care Details

Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours/day); tolerates partial shade but may flower less.

Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate new plants gradually to full sun; protect from intense midday sun in hot climates; ensure adequate airflow to prevent fungal issues.

Warning Signs: Yellowing leaves with brown tips indicate overwatering; sparse growth suggests poor light or nutrients.

Care Requirements

Care Difficulty
moderate

moderate

Sunlight

full sun to partial shade

Full sun promotes flowering; partial shade reduces stress in hot regions; rotate plants for even growth.

Watering

every 7–10 days during active growth, less frequently in winter

Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure good drainage; avoid wetting foliage.

Soil

well-drained, loamy soil with moderate organic content

pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).

Ensure good drainage; amend with organic matter; avoid waterlogged conditions.

Temperature

Hardy in USDA zones 4–8; prefers 60–75°F (15–24°C); tolerates winter cold but needs protection from extreme heat.

Protect from frost; avoid sudden temperature swings; ensure good air circulation in heat.

Fertilizing

every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer with balanced, slow-release fertilizer

Fertilize once a year in spring; use a low-nitrogen formula; water well after application.

Propagation

Methods

Softwood cuttings in late spring or early summer.

Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
  1. Take 4–6 inch cuttings.
  2. Remove lower leaves.
  3. Dip in hormone.
  4. Plant in medium.
  5. Maintain humidity.

Best Time: Late spring to early summer when new growth is flexible.

Environment

Warm (70–75°F), humid environment with indirect light.

Medium

Peat-based mix with perlite or sand for good drainage.

Hormone

Rooting hormone recommended for faster root development.

Timeline

Roots in 4–6 weeks; establish in new pot or ground within 1–2 months.

Tools Needed

Pruners, rooting hormone, small pots, misting spray bottle.

Quick Tips

Use morning-cuttings for best results; keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged.

Pruning & Repotting

Pruning Guide
Method

Selective thinning of branches; heading back to encourage denser growth.

Pruning Plan

Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushiness, and remove dead or weak growth.

Tools

Pruning shears, loppers (for larger branches), sterilizing solution.

Checklist

Sterilize tools; prune dead/damaged wood; shape plant; clean up debris.

Repotting Guide
Best Season

Early spring before active growth starts.

Pot Size

Increase pot size by 2–3 inches in diameter.

Method

Remove plant gently; trim roots if needed; repot in fresh, well-draining soil; water thoroughly.

Suggestions

Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the container; beneficial for container-grown plants.

Checklist

Choose new pot; prepare fresh soil; inspect roots; water after repotting.

Advanced Care Tips

Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist

Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; avoid wetting leaves.

How to Apply Water Properly

Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone; allow excess water to drain away; water early in the morning to minimize evaporation.

Pro Tip: Use a soaker hose to deliver water directly to the roots, reducing waste and fungal risk.
Watering Schedule Tips

Water deeply once the top inch of soil is dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.

Soil Improvement

Add compost or aged manure for fertility; mix sand or perlite for drainage.

Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues

Chlorosis or leaf scorch in excessive heat; stunted growth or dieback in prolonged cold.

Cold Stress

Leaves may wilt or turn brown; growth slows; roots can freeze in poorly insulated soil.

Solution: Mulch heavily around the base; protect from harsh winds; move potted plants to sheltered locations.

Hot Stress

Wilting, leaf drop, or flower bud abortion; soil dries out quickly.

Solution: Provide afternoon shade; increase watering frequency; use mulch to retain soil moisture.

Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist

Choose balanced fertilizer; apply in spring; water after fertilizing; avoid contact with roots.

Fertilizing Method

Use balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring; avoid over-fertilizing, which can reduce flowering.

Common Problems & Solutions

Yellow leaves in Lespedeza bicolor may indicate nutrient deficiencies, overwatering, or pest infestations, affecting photosynthesis and overall plant health.

Wilting in Lespedeza bicolor can be caused by water stress, root damage, or disease, leading to reduced nutrient uptake and potential plant death if not addressed.

Leaf spots on Lespedeza bicolor are typically caused by fungal or bacterial pathogens, leading to reduced photosynthesis and potential defoliation if severe.

Rotting, particularly root or stem rot, in Lespedeza bicolor is often due to excessive moisture or fungal pathogens, which can lead to plant decline and death.

Toxicity Warning

Cats
Non-toxic

Lespedeza bicolor is not considered toxic to cats. It does not produce any known harmful effects when ingested or touched.

⚡ Toxic If:

Generally non-toxic

No specific precautions are needed for growing this plant around cats.
Dogs
Non-toxic

Lespedeza bicolor is not considered toxic to dogs. There are no known adverse effects associated with ingestion or contact.

⚡ Toxic If:

Generally non-toxic

No specific precautions are needed for growing this plant around dogs.
Humans
Non-toxic

Lespedeza bicolor is not considered toxic to humans under normal circumstances. It is commonly used in landscaping and does not pose significant health risks.

⚡ Toxic If:

Generally non-toxic

No specific precautions are needed for handling or growing this plant around humans.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Does Lespedeza bicolor attract wildlife?

A: Yes, it is known to attract bees, butterflies, and birds.

Q: Is Lespedeza bicolor toxic to pets?

A: Reliable information on toxicity to pets is not available.

Q: How often should Lespedeza bicolor be watered?

A: It is drought tolerant but benefits from regular watering, especially during dry periods.

Quick Reference
Family: Fabaceae
Care: moderate
Light: full sun to partial shade
Water: every 7–10 days during activ
Suitable For: ["outdoor landscapers","wildlife supporters (attracts bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Get Expert Care Tips

Download the Plantious app for personalized care reminders and plant identification!

Google Play App Store
Share This Plant

Related Plants

White Angel
View
Ladys' Vetch
View
Red Sandalwood
View
Sunn hemp
View