Lespedeza cyrtobotrya, commonly known as Bush Clover or Chinese Bush Clover, is a deciduous perennial shrub native to East Asia, including regions in China, Japan, and Korea. It is typically found in forest edges, open woodlands, and grasslands, where it contributes to the biodiversity of the area. This shrub grows at a moderate rate to a typical height and width of 3-6 feet (0.9-1.8 meters), forming a rounded shape with arching branches. The foliage is composed of trifoliate leaves, which add a fine texture to the plant’s overall appearance. From late summer to fall, it produces racemes of small, pea-like, pink flowers that are quite showy and attract pollinators.

Bush Clover is valued for its late-season blooms and its ability to adapt to various soil types, including clay, loam, and sandy soils. It is often used in restoration projects, as a border plant, or for naturalizing areas due to its ease of maintenance and tolerance of part shade conditions. It is important to note that Lespedeza cyrtobotrya can spread outside its native range; gardeners should consult local regulations before planting.CC BY-SA 4.0