Round-Headed Bushclover (Lespedeza capitata)

Distinguishing Characteristics

Leaves and stem covered with fine, silvery hairs and leaves divided into 3 narrow leaflets.

Height

to 5 feet

Blooms

July to October

Description

A slender legume, its flowers occur in dense, rounded heads up to 1 to 1 1/2 inches in diameter. Each flower has an upper petal, two side petals and a lower lip. The flowers are creamy white with a reddish to purplish spot at the base

Comments

This species is found on prairies and savannas and is commonly used in native wildflower seed mixes. It often flowers in unmanaged warm-season grass fields and is easy to establish from seed. In winter, seed heads are chocolate brown and standout against the light tan color of warm-season grasses. Good food source for wildlife and forage for livestock.