Slender Bush-clover
Lespedeza virginica
Last reviewed: June 2026
Light
full sun
Water
low
Size
12"–36" H × 6"–18" W
Bloom
Jul, Aug, Sep
Native to
AL, AR, CT, FL and 22 more states
Pollinators
bees, butterflies
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Slender bush-clover is a delicate native perennial that forms compact clumps of fine-textured foliage. It produces clusters of small purple flowers from July through September, creating a soft, naturalistic appearance in sunny gardens.
In an HOA neighborhood
Slender Bush-clover takes more care to keep looking intentional in a front yard. Maintenance level: low. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.
Works well in: backyard only.
- Very informal appearance may look weedy to HOAs
- Fine texture and open growth habit lacks traditional landscaping structure
- Name includes 'clover' which many HOAs specifically prohibit
Wildlife value
Host plant for silver-spotted skipper.
The flowers attract native bees and butterflies during its extended summer bloom period. As a legume, it also helps fix nitrogen in the soil.
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.
Does Slender Bush-clover fit your yard? Open it in Pollinator Patch to check it against your sun, soil, and HOA-conscious filters.