Lespedeza pilosa
Lespedeza pilosafam. Fabaceae
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Pl. A3AB — Lespedeza pilosa
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IOverview
Overview
Lespedeza pilosa, a perennial from the Fabaceae family, is native to regions including China North-Central, South-Central, and Southeast, Japan, Korea, Nansei-shoto, and Tibet. This plant thrives in light, full sun conditions with moist soil that is well-drained, preferring light (sandy) or medium textures. Standing at about 0.6 meters tall, Lespedeza pilosa is known for its edible leaves, making it a valuable resource in certain culinary traditions. Its adaptability to various climates and soils makes it a noteworthy addition to gardens and landscapes.
Quick answers
What is Lespedeza pilosa?
Lespedeza pilosa, a perennial from the Fabaceae family, is native to regions including China North-Central, South-Central, and Southeast, Japan, Korea, Nansei-shoto, and Tibet. This plant thrives in light, full sun conditions with moist soil that is well-drained, preferring light (sandy) or medium textures.
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
VCultivation
Cultivation
Lespedeza pilosa thrives in full sun and prefers moist, light to medium soil. It grows up to 0.6 meters tall and is a perennial. This plant is hardy in temperate regions and can be propagated through seeds or cuttings. Its edible leaves are suitable for consumption.
Light
Full sun
Water
Moist
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium
Life cycle
Perennial
Mature size
0.6 m tall
For first-time growers
How to grow Lespedeza pilosa for the first time
8steps
Start with Skip as a simple, low-maintenance perennial for your garden.
- 1
What you'll need
Skip seeds or young plants, a trowel, and a watering can.
- 2
Best time to plant
Plant in spring after the last frost or in fall before the first freeze.
- 3
Soil and container prep
Choose a location with full sun. Ensure soil is light (sandy) to medium, well-draining.
- 4
Sowing or transplanting
Direct sow seeds 0.5 cm deep in the ground or plant young Skip plants at this depth.
- 5
First two weeks
Water regularly to keep soil moist but not waterlogged. Monitor for pests and diseases.
- 6
Ongoing care
Provide regular watering, especially during dry spells. Prune in late winter or early spring.
- 7
Harvest or pruning
Prune Skip plants to maintain shape and encourage new growth throughout the growing season.
- 8
Common mistakes
Overwatering, planting too deep, neglecting to prune regularly.
VIEdible & utility
Edible & utility
Edible parts:Leaves
Edible uses: The leaves of Lespedeza pilosa are edible and can be consumed fresh or cooked. They are often used in stir-fries or soups, adding a mild flavor to dishes. The plant thrives in moist, light soil and full sun, making it suitable for gardens where it can provide both ornamental value and culinary use.
Other uses:Nitrogen fixer
Contextrange · companions · related
VIIDistribution
7 native · 0 introduced
Distribution
7 native · 0 introducedDistribution across1 continent· 7 native
Asia3 regions
native (3)ChinaJapanSouth Korea
Broader regions
native:Nansei-shoto
IXSpecimen gallery
1 image
Specimen gallery
1 imageXSee also
8 related
See also
8 relatedPlants you might compare or use together — scored by shared family (Fabaceae), common use cases, and growing requirements.
same family · Fabaceae
Botanical relatives — often share phytochemistry + growing needs.
XI
Explore further
Companion planting
Compare with similar plants
XII
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