Kummerowia
kummerowia striata
Also known as: ["Chinese clover","striped Lespedeza"]
Overview
A small, annual legume with trifoliate leaves and small pinkish-purple flowers, often found in disturbed areas.
Benefits & Perks
["drought tolerant","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Fabales |
| Family: | Fabaceae |
| Genus: | Kummerowia |
| Botanical Name: | Kummerowia striata |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Herbs & Weeds
- Suitable Location: outdoor garden bed in temperate climates
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"10–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"5–9"}
- Misting: rarely required
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, loamy soil with added organic matter; can tolerate poor soils.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: very low
- Toughness Level: very high
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically every 2–3 months or after flowering.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of growth if overgrown.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun to partial shade; 6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily; tolerates some shade in hot climates.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense sunlight; protect from harsh midday sun; adjust placement based on seasonal light intensity.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
very easyeasy
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant for even light exposure; use sheer curtains to filter intense sun; move outdoors in spring/summer for optimal growth.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly until it drains from the bottom; allow soil to dry between waterings; avoid overwatering.
Soil
well-draining, loamy soil with moderate organic content
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Use a mix of garden soil and compost; avoid heavy clay soils; ensure pots have drainage holes.
Temperature
Prefers warm to hot conditions; ideal range 65–85°F (18–29°C); tolerates mild frosts but thrives in warmth.
Avoid drafty areas; protect from frost; maintain consistent warmth for best growth.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during growing season
Fertilize after watering to prevent root burn; switch to low-nitrogen formula for flowering; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or division; stem cuttings root easily in warm conditions.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take 4–6 inch cuttings.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Keep moist and warm.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm, humid environment with indirect light; maintain consistent moisture.
Medium
Well-draining potting mix or perlite and peat moss mix.
Hormone
Optional but recommended for faster rooting.
Timeline
Roots develop in 2–4 weeks; new growth appears in 6–8 weeks.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, well-draining medium.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; keep cuttings out of direct sun; maintain humidity with a plastic cover.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back tips for bushier growth; cut just above a leaf node or bud.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushiness, and remove dead or diseased growth.
Tools
Pruning shears, sharp knife, disinfectant.
Checklist
Disinfect tools; prune dead/damaged growth; shape as desired; dispose of clippings properly.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before the active growing season begins.
Pot Size
Choose a pot one size larger (1–2 inches wider) than the current one.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if necessary; place in new pot with fresh soil; water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for growth and soil freshness.
Checklist
Select appropriate pot; prepare new soil mix; handle roots carefully; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water thoroughly; ensure drainage; adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone, ensuring even saturation; water early in the morning to minimize evaporation; ensure excess water drains away to prevent waterlogging.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once the top inch of soil feels dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure good aeration.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, leaf drop, or stunted growth in cold; scorching or leaf burn in excessive heat.
Cold Stress
Growth slows or halts; leaves may turn yellow or brown; susceptible to frost damage in prolonged cold.
Solution: Move to a warmer location; provide frost protection in cold climates; avoid sudden temperature drops.
Hot Stress
Leaves may wilt, scorch, or drop; growth may slow; soil dries out quickly.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase watering frequency; use mulch to retain soil moisture.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check fertilizer type; dilute properly; apply during growing season; avoid winter feeding.
Fertilizing Method
Use balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength; apply every 4–6 weeks during growing season (spring/summer); avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicKummerowia striata is not known to be toxic to cats. The plant does not produce any known compounds that are harmful to felines.
⚡ Toxic If:
None
Dogs
Non-toxicKummerowia striata is not known to be toxic to dogs. The plant does not produce any known compounds that are harmful to canines.
⚡ Toxic If:
None
Humans
Non-toxicKummerowia striata is not known to exhibit toxic properties to humans under normal circumstances. The plant is generally considered safe for human contact and consumption.
⚡ Toxic If:
None
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Kummerowia striata edible?
A: It is not commonly consumed by humans, and its edibility is not well-documented.
Q: Does Kummerowia striata attract pollinators?
A: Yes, it attracts bees and butterflies with its flowers.
Q: Is Kummerowia striata invasive?
A: It can be considered invasive in some regions due to its rapid growth and spread in disturbed areas.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Fabaceae |
| Care: | very easy |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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