Round-head Bush-clover
Lespedeza capitata
Last reviewed: June 2026
Lespedeza capitata (Round-head Bush-clover) is a native wildflower blooming July through September across much of the eastern and central United States. This drought-tolerant plant attracts bees, butterflies, and beetles with its distinctive white flower clusters.
The USDA PLANTS Database (opens in new tab) does not flag Round-head Bush-clover as toxic to livestock.
Light
full sun
Water
low
Size
24"–48" H × 12"–24" W
Bloom
Jul, Aug, Sep
Native to
AL, AR, FL, GA and 22 more states
Pollinators
bees, butterflies, beetles
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Round-head bush-clover is a native perennial that forms upright clumps of fine-textured foliage topped with distinctive white, globe-shaped flower clusters from summer through early fall. This drought-tolerant prairie plant maintains a relatively neat, shrub-like appearance and requires minimal care once established.
Growing Round-head Bush-clover
Grow Round-head Bush-clover in full sun and low water. Mature plants reach 24 to 48 inches tall and spread 12 to 24 inches wide. Expect low maintenance to keep it looking intentional in a front yard.
In an HOA neighborhood
Round-head Bush-clover is an HOA-friendly choice. Maintenance level: low. Tidiness: 3 out of 5.
Works well in: mid zone, foundation, front yard.
- May appear bare or woody in late winter
- Unfamiliar to some neighbors who prefer traditional landscaping
Wildlife value
Host plant for eastern tailed-blue butterfly.
The dense flower clusters attract numerous pollinators including native bees, butterflies, and beetles during its long blooming period. Seeds provide food for birds and small mammals in fall and winter.
Common questions
- When does Round-head Bush-clover bloom?
- Lespedeza capitata blooms from July through September, producing dense, rounded clusters of small white flowers.
- What pollinators visit Round-head Bush-clover?
- This native plant attracts bees, butterflies, and beetles, making it valuable for supporting diverse pollinator populations.
- Where is Lespedeza capitata native?
- Round-head Bush-clover is native to 26 states from the Great Plains eastward, including Alabama, Illinois, Kansas, North Carolina, and Wisconsin.
- What growing conditions does this plant prefer?
- Lespedeza capitata thrives in full sun and tolerates drought conditions well, making it suitable for low-maintenance native plant gardens.
- Is Round-head Bush-clover toxic to livestock?
- The USDA PLANTS Database does not flag Round-head Bush-clover as toxic to livestock.
- Is Round-head Bush-clover HOA-friendly?
- Round-head Bush-clover is generally an HOA-friendly choice in the right placement, with low maintenance.
Native range data from the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists. Pollinator and host plant associations compiled from GBIF, iNaturalist, and published ecological literature.
Ready to grow Round-head Bush-clover? Add it to your garden in Pollinator Patch to track it and get season-by-season care guidance.
Not sure where to start? Take the 2-minute yard quiz