Fabaceae
Legume Family
Lespedeza leptostachya Engelm.
- Notes: Lespedeza leptostachya is shorter than L. capitata (2’ to 2 1/2’) with similar leaves but smaller, the middle leaflet 1” by 1/4”, and hairy above and below. The inflorescence is a raceme, 1 1/2” to 2” long with few flowers and not crowded. The flowers and fruits are similar but smaller. The calyx is 3/16” long, and the pods are 1/8” long. Flowering is from mid-August to mid-September, and fruiting begins in early September. L. leptostachya is rare on dry to moist prairies. It is listed as threatened both in Iowa and the United States.
- Bibliography from Biodiversity Heritage Library
- Vascular Plants of Iowa
