Lespedeza virginica facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Lespedeza virginica |
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| In Virginia, United States | |
| Scientific classification | |
| Genus: |
Lespedeza
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| Species: |
virginica
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Lespedeza virginica, also known as slender bush clover or slender lespedeza, is a pretty flowering plant. It grows naturally in many parts of the United States and in Ontario, Canada. This plant belongs to the bean family, called Fabaceae. It's an important part of nature, but it is considered a threatened plant in some areas like Wisconsin and New Hampshire.
Contents
What Does Slender Bush Clover Look Like?
Slender bush clover is a type of plant that comes back every year. It can grow up to 2.5 feet (about 76 cm) tall. Its stem is covered in tiny white hairs.
Leaves and Flowers
The leaves of this plant are dark green. They are made up of three smaller leaflets, like a clover. Sometimes, the leaves can look a bit pale.
The flowers are a lovely pink color. Each flower has one wide petal on top and two smaller petals on the sides. Some flowers open up, while others stay closed. The closed flowers can still make seeds!
When Does It Grow?
Slender bush clover flowers from July to September. It then makes its seeds from September to October. This plant likes sunny spots or places with some shade. It can even grow well in rocky or sandy soils. It has a strong main root, called a taproot, which helps it stay firm in the ground.
Where Does Slender Bush Clover Live?
You can find Lespedeza virginica across a wide area. It grows from Maine down to Florida and west to Texas. It also lives north to Michigan and in Eastern Canada.
Preferred Homes
This plant prefers drier places. You might spot it in prairies or in rocky and sandy forests. It also likes savannas and areas where water drains away quickly, like along roadsides.
Who Eats Slender Bush Clover?
Many different animals enjoy eating Lespedeza virginica. It's a popular food source for wildlife.
Animals That Eat It
The bobwhite quail loves to eat this plant. Deer and other ground birds also munch on its leaves. Even the seeds are a tasty snack for these animals.
Insects and Nectar
Butterflies and bees are also fans of slender bush clover. They visit the pink flowers to drink the sweet nectar. They also collect pollen, which helps the plant make new seeds.
Why Is Slender Bush Clover Important?
Lespedeza virginica is a valuable part of its ecosystem. It provides food for many animals and helps keep the soil healthy.
Conservation Status
Because it's so important, we need to protect this plant. In Wisconsin and New Hampshire, Lespedeza virginica is listed as a threatened species. This means its numbers are getting low, and it needs our help to survive and thrive.
