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Lespedeza thunbergii (Thunberg's Bush Clover)

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description Lespedeza thunbergii (Thunberg's Bush Clover) Overview

Lespedeza thunbergii, known as Thunberg's bush clover, is a deciduous shrub in the legume family native to China and Japan. The plant was named in honor of Carl Peter Thunberg, a Swedish botanist and apostle of Carl Linnaeus who extensively cataloged Japanese flora. It is characterized by its long, fountain-like arching stems that bear masses of rose-purple, pea-like flowers from late summer into autumn. Gardeners frequently use it for late-season ornamental interest in borders and landscape designs.

help Lespedeza thunbergii (Thunberg's Bush Clover) FAQ

Who is Lespedeza thunbergii named after?

The plant was named in honor of Carl Peter Thunberg, a Swedish botanist and apostle of Carl Linnaeus who extensively cataloged Japanese flora. He was one of the first western scientists to document the plants of Japan in the 18th century.

What does Thunberg's bush clover look like in bloom?

This deciduous shrub in the legume family is characterized by its graceful, fountain-like, arching stems. In late summer and fall, it produces masses of small, rosy-purple, pea-like flowers along the length of these stems.

Where is Lespedeza thunbergii native to?

Thunberg's bush clover is native to China and Japan, where it naturally grows in open woodlands and grassy slopes. It was introduced to Western horticulture in the 19th century.

Should you cut back Thunberg's bush clover in the winter?

Because it blooms on new wood, it is highly recommended to cut the plant back to the ground in late winter or early spring. This prevents the shrub from becoming too sprawling and encourages strong, graceful new arching stems for the upcoming season.

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