Leafy lespedeza (Lespedeza cyrtobotrya)

Family: Fabaceae or Leguminosae | Edibility: Edible (1/5)

Lespedeza cyrtobotrya is a deciduous Shrub growing to 2 m (6ft 7in). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 6 and is not frost tender. It is in flower in August, and the seeds ripen from September to October. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Insects. It can fix Nitrogen. Suitable for: light (sandy) and medium (loamy) soils and prefers well-drained soil.

Edible Parts & Harvest Seasons

Edible Parts: Leaves

Harvest Seasons: Early Summer, Spring

Flavor & Culinary Uses

Young leaves and plant tops - cooked. — Young leaves and plant tops - cooked.

Habitat & North American Range

Meadows and grassy places in hills and low mountains, C. and S. Japan. Mountain slopes, thickets and forests below 1500 metres. (Zone 5, Zone 6, Zone 7, Zone 8, Zone 9)