Bush Clover
Lespedeza thunbergii
Varieties We Bring In
Last received Jul 19, 2026.
We bring this in seasonally, so what is on the lot changes week to week. A received date shows when it last came in, not that it is here today.
Call (904) 471-0440 to confirm this plant and size before you make the trip.
About Bush Clover
Thunberg Bush Clover (Lespedeza thunbergii) is a graceful, arching deciduous shrub from China and Japan, growing 5–10 ft tall with cascading sprays of rose-purple pea-like flowers in late summer and fall. Hardy to zone 9b, it dies back after frost and regrows vigorously in spring — note that it can be invasive in the Southeast, so sterile cultivars are preferred. Starting at $14.95.
Plant details
- Bloom Season
- Summer, Fall
- Flower Color
- Pink, Purple
- Growth Rate
- Moderate
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Soil
- Sandy, Loam, Well-drained
Best planting months
Seasonal care
New foliage emerges. Good planting window.
Bloom season. Handles summer heat well once established.
Bloom season. Foliage may begin to change or drop. Ideal planting window.
Dormant — drops foliage.
Care essentials
Plant in full sun for the most abundant flowering; at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily produces the best late-summer floral display in NE Florida.
Water thoroughly at planting and regularly through the first growing season; once established, Bush Clover tolerates drought but benefits from weekly watering during summer dry periods.
Thrives in average to lean, well-drained sandy or loamy soil with slightly acidic pH (6.0–6.5); overly rich soil promotes lush growth at the expense of flowers — minimal fertilization needed.
Similar needs
Abelia
Shares 5 of the same needs: full sun, moderate water, sandy, zone 9a hardiness, and pollinator-friendly.
Almond Bush
Shares 5 of the same needs: full sun, moderate water, sandy, zone 9a hardiness, and pollinator-friendly.
Blackberry
Shares 5 of the same needs: full sun, moderate water, sandy, zone 9a hardiness, and pollinator-friendly.
Blueberry
Shares 5 of the same needs: full sun, moderate water, sandy, zone 9a hardiness, and pollinator-friendly.
Brazilian Red Cloak
Shares 5 of the same needs: full sun, moderate water, sandy, zone 9a hardiness, and pollinator-friendly.
Bush Daisy
Shares 5 of the same needs: full sun, moderate water, sandy, zone 9a hardiness, and pollinator-friendly.
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Common questions
Is Bush Clover a good plant for St. Augustine?
Bush Clover is a shrub for Zone 9b coastal Florida gardens, reaching 5-10 feet × 5-10 feet.
Care information verified from
Last reviewed February 2026. Our care guidance comes from trusted horticulture sources and decades of helping St. Augustine gardeners. Conditions here can vary dramatically from one area to the next, so come ask us and we'll tailor it to your yard.