Chinese Lespedeza (Lespedeza juncea)

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

Lespedeza juncea is a deciduous Shrub growing to 1.2 m (4ft). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 5 and is not frost tender. It is in flower in September, and the seeds ripen from October to November. 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, Shoots

Harvest Seasons: Early Summer, Spring

Flavor & Culinary Uses

Young leaves and shoots - cooked. — Young leaves and shoots - cooked.

Habitat & North American Range

River banks in Manchuria. Open places at elevations of 1000 - 2000 metres in Nepal. Mountain slopes and thickets below 1500 metres in China. (Zone 4, Zone 5, Zone 6, Zone 7, Zone 8)