The Story
Plant Bio
Lespedeza thunbergii 'Gibraltar' is a deciduous shrub with a graceful, arching, fountain-like habit. It is prized for its profuse, late-season bloom of pea-like, rosy-purple flowers that cover the branches.
This cultivar is known for its dramatic weeping form and spectacular floral display from late summer to fall, attracting bees and butterflies. It typically dies back to the ground in colder climates, behaving like an herbaceous perennial.
Uses & Benefits:
Essentials
At a Glance
Plant Type
Shrub
Height
60 inches
Width
72 inches
Light
Full Sun, Partial Sun
Zones
5, 6, 7, 8, 9
Water
Moderate
Humidity
Average
Lifespan
Perennial
Native To
Asia
Toxicity
Non-toxic
Bloom period
Late summer – Early fall
In flower about 2 months of the year
Marketplace
Where to Buy
Shipping costs Year-round shipping Free shipping
Planting
How to Grow
- Tuck seeds into well-draining soil in early spring for best germination.
- Mist cuttings regularly to maintain humidity and promote rooting.
- Plant in full sun to ensure vibrant flowering and healthy growth.
- Water deeply during dry spells to establish strong roots.
- Fertilize with a balanced fertilizer in early spring and mid-summer.
- Prune after flowering to maintain shape and encourage new growth.
Pro Tip
Use well-draining soil and full sun for optimal growth and flowering.
Keep It Thriving
Care Guide
Do
- Water regularly during dry periods 💧
- Prune after flowering to promote dense growth ✂️
- Fertilize in early spring for vigorous blooms 🌱
- Mulch to retain soil moisture and suppress weeds 🌱
Don't
- Avoid overwatering to prevent root rot ❌
- Do not fertilize late in the season to prevent weak growth ❌
- Refrain from heavy pruning during dormancy ❌
Seasonal Care Calendar
| Task | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Fertilize | ||||||||||||
| Mulch | ||||||||||||
| Prune |
Watch Out For
Pests & Diseases
Common Pests
Common Diseases
In the Garden
Landscape Uses & Companions
Landscape Uses
Multiply
Propagation Methods
Good to Know
Common Questions
Gibraltar Lespedeza questions
What zones can Gibraltar Lespedeza grow in?
Gibraltar Lespedeza is hardy in USDA Zones 5–9. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.
Is Gibraltar Lespedeza deer resistant?
Yes — Gibraltar Lespedeza is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.
When does Gibraltar Lespedeza bloom?
Gibraltar Lespedeza typically blooms in late summer through early fall. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.
Does Gibraltar Lespedeza need full sun?
Gibraltar Lespedeza does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.
Is Gibraltar Lespedeza drought tolerant?
Yes — once established (usually after the first full season), Gibraltar Lespedeza handles dry spells with minimal watering. Water deeply its first year to build the root system that makes that possible.
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Keep exploring
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Grow Gibraltar Lespedeza with confidence
See it in a design of your actual yard, get zone-matched care reminders, and track it season by season in your garden journal.