AGR-175

Forage Identification and Use Guide

Lespedeza (Sericea), Perennial

Lespedeza cuneata

Sericia lespedeza has a very stiff and woody main stem and leaves extend from it. It tends to branch only near the tip of the main stem and only when allowed to become mature.

Description
Erect-growing, warm-season, perennial legume. Grows 18 to 40 inches tall. Deep rooted and tolerant of drought, soil acidity, and low fertility. Most varieties have high levels of tannin that reduce digestibility and animal acceptance. Low-tannin varieties are available.
Uses
Erosion control, hay, pasture.
Advantages
Tolerant of drought, soil acidity, and low fertility. Nonbloating. Good summer growth.
Disadvantages
Unpalatable as pasture. Low yielding. Stemmy and low quality when mature. Low quality as hay due to high leaf loss during raking and baling.
Seeding
Rate: 20-30 lb/a
Depth: ¼-½ in
Date: Mar 15-Apr 15
Harvest
First harvest: May 15-Jun 1
Annual yield: 1-2 tons dry matter/a

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