Sericea Lespedeza

Sericea lespedeza was introduced to the United States from China in 1900 for erosion control. It contains tannin which makes the plant essentially unpalatable to livestock with the exception of sheep and goats. Sericea lespedeza is spread by animals and the movement of infested hay. This plant is tolerant to drought. The seed may remain viable for more than 20 years.
Sericea lespedeza is found in Nebraska and Kansas. Residents of Colorado's eastern plains should be watching for this species.