This wildlife powerhouse is loved by bees, birds, mammals, and soils alike. Members of the Bean family fix nitrogen in the soil, so round-headed bush clover is a great companion for other plants in a wide range of well-drained soils, especially poor or rocky. Once established, the clover is drought tolerant. The erect, 2- to 5-foot stems are topped by clusters of white flowers with a touch of purple from late summer to fall. The stems and soft, green leaves are covered in fine, white hairs.  
 
Plant Characteristics:
Grows 2-5' tall and 1-2' wide.
 
Prefers full or part sun.
 
Adapts to a wide range of well-drained, moist to dry soils. Tolerates drought.
 
Round, white/purple flowers bloom August-October. 
 
Wildlife Value:
Host plant for eastern-tailed blue (Everes comyntas) larvae, which has many broods from February-November. The adult butterflies feed on low-lying, open or short-tubed flowers such as white sweet clover, shepherd's needle, wild strawberry, winter cress, cinquefoils, and asters. Bees visit for nectar. Birds and mammals browse the nutritious plant.
 
Resources:
North Carolina Extension: https://plants.ces.ncsu.edu/plants/lespedeza-capitata/
 
Full profile soon!