bush clover
Lespedeza capitata
Cycle:
Herbaceous Perennial
Watering:
Minimum
Hardiness Zone:
4 - 8
Flowers:
Creamy white with magenta spot Flowers
Sun:
Full sun,part shade
Leaf:
Yes
Leaf Color:
green
Growth Rate:
Low
Maintenance:
Low
Salt Tolerant:
Yes
Thorny:
Yes
Invasive:
Yes
Care Level:
Medium
watering
Bush clover should be watered thoroughly 1-2 times per week depending on the weather. During dry spells, the soil should be watered deeply once a week, and during wetter periods only light watering is needed. It is important to avoid over-watering, as the plant is susceptible to root rot. Bush clover can be sensitive to drying out, so check soil moisture with your finger before watering. The bottom line is to give the plant enough water to keep the soil consistently moist.
sunlight
Bush clover (Lespedeza capitata) thrives best in full sun, meaning it needs at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight each day to reach its full potential. The best time of day for the plant to receive this type of sunlight is between 10 am and 4 pm, when the sun is at its strongest. Light levels should be consistent throughout the day, to ensure the plant receives the optimal amount of sunlight. It's important to note that Bush clover is not tolerant of extreme heat or direct harsh sunlight for longer periods, so care should be taken to shield the plant from the direct rays of the sun during the hottest parts of the day.
pruning
Bush clover should be pruned during the active growing season, preferably in the spring or early summer. Pruning should be done to remove diseased or dead branches and to selectively control the size and shape of the plant. It is best to use a light pruning; cutting back no more than 1-third of the new growth each season. Pruning can also help with air circulation and encourage more blooms for a more attractive shrub.
