Sericea lespedeza is a drought hardy legume and is classified as a noxious weed in Franklin County.  Sericea lespedeza is found primarily in native rangeland, CRP and roadsides in Kansas.  Sericea lespedeza is a perennial with erect stems up to 5ft tall and small hairs laying flat along the ridges on the stem. Flowering occurs from mid or late July to October and may be tinged with purple but always dry to yellow. 

Producers should inspect all pasture and rangeland in July, August and September.  Early detection is essential to economical control. 

Herbicide recommendations for pasture and rangeland include Crossbow, Escort, Remedy or Remedy plus 2-4D. Apply herbicides when the plants area actively growing and not stressed by drought.  Contact the Noxious Weed Department for more information or for herbicides. 

Additional information on Sericea Lespedeza is available online through the Franklin County Noxious Weed Department at: http://www.franklincoks.org/noxiousweed/noxiousweed_page.htm 

Photo is property of the Franklin County Conservation District and is not to be reproduced without written permission of the Franklin County Conservation District, Ottawa Ks.