Round Headed Bushclover (Lespedeza capitata)

Round headed bush clover is a sturdy, upright native perennial standing about 4 feet tall, distinguished by its silvery-green foliage and dense, globose flower heads that transition to a striking copper-bronze in winter. This drought tolerant legume is a powerhouse for local ecosystems, providing high protein seeds for upland game birds and serving as a critical nectar source for long tongued bees and butterflies. Its deep taproot and nitrogen fixing capabilities make it an excellent choice for restoring soil health in dry prairies or open woodlands. This plant also has a long history of use by indigenous people in teas and medicine, primarily utilizing the foliage.