Shrub
Bush Clover
Lespedeza thunbergii
Varieties We Carry
Little VolcanoLespedeza thunbergii
Sizes & Pricing
2 galFrom$16.95
3 galFrom$14.95
Fresh this week. Last restocked Apr 8.
LightFull Sun
WaterLow to Moderate
Mature size5-10 feet × 5-10 feet
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
Recommended forZone 9b · St. Augustine, FL
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This monthGood windowOther 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
Light
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
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.
Soil & Fertilizer
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.
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Bush Daisy
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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.