How to identify Sericea lespedeza (Lespedeza cuneata)

How to identify Sericea lespedeza (Lespedeza cuneata)

Sericea lespedeza, also known as Chinese bushclover, Sericea

Sericea lespedeza stands as a robust perennial reaching heights of up to 6 feet (1.8 meters). Its multiple branches bear dense compound leaves that contribute to its bushy appearance. The plant's leaves comprise of small, oblong leaflets arranged alternately along the stem. Characteristic flowers, though small, present either alone or in clusters of three within the junction of the leaf axils. These blooms are supported by a hardy root system, highlighted by a deep, sturdy taproot, which firmly anchors sericea lespedeza against efforts to uproot it. Its physical form makes it both recognizable and resilient in various environments.

Lifespan: Perennial

Plant Type: Herb, Shrub

Leaf Type: Deciduous

Quickly Identify Sericea lespedeza

Robust perennial reaching 6 feet (1.8 meters) with bushy appearance.

Creamy white to pale yellow flowers with central purple spots.

Small legume pods with single seeds, bean-like shape.

Compound leaves with 3 oblong leaflets, pointed tips, and grayish-green hair-covered surface.

Gray-green stem with fine hairs, herbaceous to semi-woody, reaching 2-4 feet (60-120 cm).

Detailed Traits of Sericea lespedeza

Leaf Features

The leaves of sericea lespedeza are compound with 3 narrowly oblong leaflets, each pointed at the tip. They feature awl-shaped spines and distinctly wedge-shaped bases. The leaflets measure about 0.5-1 inch (1.3-2.5 cm) in length and are densely covered with flattened hairs, giving them a grayish-green or silvery appearance. The surface texture is soft due to these hairs, and veins are subtle, often blending into the surface.

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Flower Features

The flowers of sericea lespedeza are small, measuring about ¼ inch (6 mm) in diameter. They are creamy white to pale yellow with distinctive central purple spots. The flowers appear singly or in clusters of 2-4 within the axils of the upper and median leaves during the summer. They exhibit a delicate, compact appearance perfect for identification. The petal arrangement forms a subtle yet elegant display crucial for recognizing sericea lespedeza.

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Stem Features

The stem of sericea lespedeza is characterized by its gray-green color and covered with fine hairs, adding a slightly fuzzy texture. It ranges from herbaceous to semi-woody in mature specimens, often becoming woody towards the base. The stem can grow up to 2-4 feet (60-120 cm) in height. Typically slender and upright, the stems may branch minimally, maintaining a relatively smooth surface with modest ridges.

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Fruit Features

The fruit of sericea lespedeza is a small legume pod that contains a single seed. These pods are generally nestled along the stem with persistent sepals that seem to clasp the stem tightly. When mature, the pods exhibit a bean-like shape, characteristic of the Leguminosae family. Each seed within is tiny, resembling the shape of a bean and varies in color from yellow to light brown. The precise measurement of the pods or seeds is not provided, but their diminutive size is indicated by the use of the term 'tiny'.

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Sericea lespedeza and Their Similar Plants

Shrub lespedeza vs. Sericea lespedeza: What's The Difference?

Shrub lespedeza (Lespedeza bicolor) is a bushy, flowering legume. In many areas, shrub lespedeza was originally introduced to support wildlife and for use as an ornamental garden plant. Now, however, the shrub lespedeza is considered an invasive species.

Roundhead bushclover vs. Sericea lespedeza: What's The Difference?

Roundhead bushclover (Lespedeza capitata) is a perennial wildflower that’s particularly high in protein. That’s why many mammals—such as deer, muskrat, and rabbits—love to nibble on it. Meanwhile, birds often eat the seeds and bees visit the small flowers. This prairie plant is drought-resistant and indigenous to eastern North America.

Slender Lespedeza vs. Sericea lespedeza: What's The Difference?

Slender Lespedeza (Lespedeza virginica) is a flowering plant species that is related to the bean. Slender Lespedeza is native to the United States and Canada. This species is endangered in Wisconsin and New Hampshire.

Bush clover vs. Sericea lespedeza: What's The Difference?

Bush clover is an exception in its genus. Some other species can become weedy and have invasive properties, while other varieties do not produce seeds. However, bush clover is prized for its colorful leaves and blooms. All cultivars have a long blooming period running from spring through fall.

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Key Facts About Sericea lespedeza

Attributes of Sericea lespedeza

Lifespan

Perennial

Plant Type

Herb, Shrub

Plant Height

61 cm to 1.2 m

Flower Color

White

Purple

Cream

Fruit Color

Brown

Yellow

Stem Color

Green

Leaf type

Deciduous

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Scientific Classification of Sericea lespedeza

Phylum

Vascular plants

Class

Dicotyledons

Order

Legumes, milkworts and allies

Family

Legume

Genus

Bush clovers

Species

Sericea lespedeza (Lespedeza cuneata)

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Distribution Map of Sericea lespedeza

Sericea lespedeza, originally native to parts of Asia and the Pacific, has been introduced to other continents, where it has established a presence. While appreciated in some regions, in certain areas it is sometimes thought to be a species that may have an impact on local ecosystems. Its spread in areas beyond its native range is notable, as sericea lespedeza adapts to diverse climates and habitats.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Potentially invasive

Exotic

No species reported

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A Comprehensive Guide to Sericea lespedeza How to Grow and Care for Sericea lespedeza