Description
Creeping bush clover (Lespedeza repens), also known as creeping lespedeza or trailing lespedeza, is native to many parts of central and eastern North America, but it is surprisingly little known. I started with a small purchased plant and was underwhelmed the first year by the somewhat stringy, trailing stems. But the next year, wow: It produced an abundance of stems that cascaded over the edge of the raised bed, creating a waterfall of small, oblong leaflets sprinkled with purplish pink, pea-like blooms in late summer to early fall. It would look terrific planted on top of a wall or on a slope, where it could trail for several feet (eventually even more, as the stems may take root where they touch the soil). Or, try it as a low groundcover (to about 8 inches tall) in a site with average to dry soil, interplanted with small bulbs for additional interest. Creeping bush clover may also self-sow. Full sun to partial shade. Perennial; Zones 4 to 8.
2022-collected seeds are sold out. I hope to collect again in late October 2023. At least 15 seeds.
Please read the germination information as well before ordering.
Kelly Andrews (verified owner) –
I cold stratified these for 2 1/2 months and moved the seed trays to warm conditions. I had a very high germination rate within 2-3 weeks at 70 degrees.