Gibraltar Bush Clover

Are you looking for a shrub that can fill in a large naturalized area, stabilize a hillside, block out all weeds, attract beneficial pollinators in droves, and provide habitat for local wildlife through the year? Gibraltar Bush Clover is THAT shrub. This beauty is absolutely dripping with pink flowers late in the summer and early fall. It is in the legume family, and as such, can absorb nitrogen from the air and sequester it in its roots as nodules. In a sense, it makes its own fertilizer and seldom needs additional nutrition. Also known as Lespedeza thunbergii Gibraltar, this may be the easiest and most beneficial plant for the landscape that you can find. Not only does this plant have a great look in the summer while in bloom, but its architectural, fountain shape is dramatic when covered in snow during the winter. Gibraltar Bush Clover grows quickly, and a yearly hard pruning of all top growth keeps this shrub compact and within bounds. Drought tolerance is high for Bush Clover. It will require little supplemental watering after the first 2-3 years in the ground. The variety Gibraltar is a bit more restrained than other types of Bush clover and could even be planted in large groups of 3 or more if the space is available. Gibraltar Bush Clover would also make a lovely addition to a mixed flowering hedge. Gibraltar Bush Clover Care Bush Clover requires full sun to bloom the best. Soil of any texture is acceptable. Provide one inch of water weekly for the first 2-3 years. No supplemental fertilizing is required. This plant collects nitrogen from the air and uses it to enrich the soil. Gibraltar Bush Clover is winter hardy in USDA zones 5-8. Bush Clover requires heavy pruning at the end of the winter to encourage vigorous blooming and growth. Cut the fountain-like branches back to 6-8 inches above the soil, preferably cutting right above a growth node. The branches will quickly grow to 5-6 feet long by the fall. No extra care is needed over the winter. Gibraltar Bush Clover Spacing Bush Clover is a shrub with a large footprint. The 6-foot x 6-foot shape forms a mound with branches weeping to the ground. Pace any surrounding plants at least 6 feet away from this shrub. Space Bush Clover plants 6 feet apart, center on center if planting in groups.