What are the aliases and floral symbolism of Lespedeza?
Known in Japan as "giu," this autumn spirit also appears prominently in China's classical text "Jiu Huang Ben Cao" (Famine Relief Materia Medica) -- what we have been describing is Lespedeza. As a treasure among leguminous plants, it not only served as a famine-relief food and high-quality fodder for ancient people due to its high protein content, but in modern times its seeds can be pressed for high-end lubricating oil, its branches and leaves can be made into health-promoting tea, and its flowers have both ornamental and medicinal value.
Lespedeza is an extremely easy-to-care-for plant, a leguminous shrub, also known among the people as "sui jun cha" (camp-following tea) and "sao pi" (broom bark). It tolerates poor growing conditions and can thrive even on hillsides and wasteland. Its flowering period is mostly concentrated in autumn, and the blooms are somewhat purplish-red or white, with considerable ornamental value. Its floral symbolism is also very romantic, representing "eternal and immortal love." In ancient times, some young men and women, to express their longing for romantic love, would make the flowers into hair ornaments and wear them as decoration.
In daily care, it prefers light and tolerates slight shade. In midsummer it needs appropriate shading to avoid direct sunlight. If indoor light is insufficient, a grow light can be used as a supplementary light source. It is recommended to place it in a position indoors with ample light and good ventilation.
Regarding growing temperature, its cold resistance is very strong, with an extreme tolerance of minus 30 degrees Celsius. It is also drought-tolerant and heat-tolerant. For daily watering, as long as the soil surface feels completely dry, you can water thoroughly, but be careful not to let water accumulate. If gardeners mainly grow it outdoors, pay attention to draining water for it on rainy days.
As for soil, Lespedeza not only has no high requirements, it can even repair the soil! Planting crops on soil where it has been grown for more than 3 years will increase subsequent harvest yields.
As for fertilizing, Lespedeza likewise has no great demand. When planting seedlings, some fertilizer can be applied, but avoid concentrated fertilizer. If the soil used contains relatively sufficient nutrients, it is not recommended to fertilize further throughout the growing process.
Regarding diseases, Lespedeza may develop rust disease, white citrus disease, and root rot, and pests include aphids and fruit borers. If abnormal conditions are found, it is recommended to buy pest-control agents from a flower shop, dilute them, and spray.