Lespedeza tomentosa
Lespedeza tomentosafam. Fabaceae
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Pl. 13DE — Lespedeza tomentosa
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IOverview
Overview
Lespedeza tomentosa, a perennial in the Fabaceae family, is native to regions including Assam, India, Japan, Korea, Mongolia, Nepal, Pakistan, and Primorye. This plant thrives in light, full sun conditions with moist soil that is well-draining and of medium texture. Growing up to 1 meter tall, it is known for its edible leaves, making it a valuable resource in some areas. Its native range extends across East Asia and parts of Central Asia, highlighting its adaptability to various climates and soils.
Quick answers
What is Lespedeza tomentosa?
Lespedeza tomentosa, a perennial in the Fabaceae family, is native to regions including Assam, India, Japan, Korea, Mongolia, Nepal, Pakistan, and Primorye. This plant thrives in light, full sun conditions with moist soil that is well-draining and of medium texture.
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
VCultivation
Cultivation
Lespedeza tomentosa thrives in full sun and prefers moist, light (sandy) or medium soil. This perennial grows up to 1 meter tall and is hardy in temperate regions. For propagation, use leaf cuttings. Ensure the plant has adequate moisture while it establishes itself. Given its native range across Asia, it adapts well to similar climates but may require some acclimatization elsewhere.
Light
Full sun
Water
Moist
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium
Life cycle
Perennial
Mature size
1.0 m tall
For first-time growers
How to grow Lespedeza tomentosa for the first time
8steps
This guide will help you start with Skip, a hardy perennial that's easy to grow for beginners.
- 1
What you'll need
Skip seeds or young plants, a trowel, and a watering can.
- 2
Best time to plant
Plant Skip in early spring after the last frost or in late summer for cooler climates.
- 3
Soil and container prep
Choose a location with well-draining soil that's light (sandy) or medium. Ensure it gets full sun.
- 4
Sowing or transplanting
Direct sow seeds 1 cm deep, spaced about 30 cm apart. Transplant young plants in the same spacing.
- 5
First two weeks
Water regularly to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. Monitor for pests and diseases.
- 6
Ongoing care
Skip thrives with regular watering, especially during dry spells. Mulch around plants to retain moisture.
- 7
Harvest or pruning
Prune in late winter before new growth starts to encourage a bushy shape and promote flowering.
- 8
Common mistakes
Overwatering, planting too deep, neglecting to prune regularly.
VIEdible & utility
Edible & utility
Edible parts:Leaves
Edible uses: The leaves of Lespedeza tomentosa are edible and can be consumed fresh or cooked. They are often prepared in stir-fries or soups, adding a mild flavor to dishes.
Other uses:Nitrogen fixer
Contextrange · companions · related
VIIDistribution
12 native · 0 introduced
Distribution
12 native · 0 introducedDistribution across1 continent· 12 native
Asia7 regions
native (7)ChinaIndiaJapanMongoliaNepalPakistanSouth Korea
Broader regions
native:Nansei-shoto, Primorye, West Himalaya
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
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Companion planting
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XII
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Back to the cataloguePlant id · 13de4462-b305-4024-ae44-346b14e21346
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