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16245 S US Hwy 71
Belton, MO 64012
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Lespedeza virginica

Slender Lespedeza

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Lespedeza virginica (Slender Lespedeza)

A tall, usually erect, heavily branched plant. Pealike, pink to pink-purple flowers bloom July to September. Flowers crowded close to the smooth stem in the upper leaf axils. Leaflets are small, elongate, with three leaves crowded close to the stem. It can be identified by its compact flowering clusters and its leaves, which are three times longer than broad and pubescent on both surfaces.

Slender Lespeeza occurs in dry woods and forest clearings. The plant and its seeds are eaten by a variety of wildlife and livestock.

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Additional Information:


Height
12-36 Inches

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Spread
-18 Inches

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Bloom/Seasonal Color
Deep Pink / Rose


USDA Hardiness Zone 4-7

Home Owner Growing and Maintenance Tips:

Good Companions
Maximilian Sunflower (Helianthus maximilianii), Ashy Sunflower (Helianthus mollis), Missouri Black-eyed Susan (Rudbeckia missouriensis), Little Bluestem (Schizachyrium scoparium)

Characteristics & Attributes

Hydrologic Designation

UPL

Nature Attracting

Beneficial Insects
Butterfly
Songbird

Root

Fibrous

Season of Interest

Mid (May-June)
Late (July-frost)

Soil Moisture

Average

Sun Exposure

Full Sun

USFS MO Ecological Map

Wildlife Benefit

Butterfly Nectar
Food/Birds