Lespedeza juncea aka Siberian Lespedeza

Lespedeza juncea is a deciduous shrub in the pea family, Fabaceae. Common names include Chinese lespedeza and juncea lespedeza. Its native range spans much of temperate Asia. It reaches from Afghanistan and the Himalayas to China, Korea and Japan. It also occurs in Mongolia and parts of eastern Russia. Wild plants grow on river banks, mountain slopes and in thickets. In Nepal, they grow in open sites at higher elevations.

The shrub reaches about 4 feet [1.2 metres] tall. It sheds its leaves and may lose its stems in winter. The roots withstand more cold than the growth above ground. In all but very mild winters, stems may die back to ground level. The plant can then send up new shoots in spring. These shoots flower in late summer, with September given as the flowering month. Each flower has both male and female organs. Insects pollinate the flowers, and seeds ripen from October to November.

Choose a sunny bed with moist soil that drains well. This species does not grow in shade. Light loam suits it, and sandy soil is also suitable. It accepts mildly acid, neutral and mildly alkaline soils. Plants For A Future describes it as easy to grow. That source gives USDA hardiness zones 4–8. Winter stem loss need not mean that the roots have died. Its ability to regrow helps it return to flower after cold winters.

Root nodules house bacteria that fix nitrogen from the air. The shrub uses some of that nitrogen for growth. Nearby plants may also gain some benefit. Its late flowers add interest to planted beds. Its twigs have a practical use in making brooms. Young leaves and shoots have been used as cooked food. Plants For A Future gives its edible value a low rating. The source lists no known hazards, but this does not establish safety for every use. It also records root juice as a traditional treatment for diarrhoea and dysentery, not as proven medical care.

Seed propagation starts with a 24-hour soak in warm water. Sow the seed in spring under greenhouse cover. Keep young plants there through at least their first winter. Plant them outside after the last expected spring frosts. Half-ripe cuttings offer another route in July or August. These cuttings can be hard to keep through their first winter. Plants For A Future does not flag the species as weedy.