Korean lespedeza
Kummerowia stipulacea                             

Identifying Characteristics:

Seed: oblong shape with possibly grooved surface; size varies from 1.7 to 2.2 mm long and 1.4 to 1.7 mm wide; shiny brown in color without hull; hull is tan to brown in color with many veins throughout

Seedling: trifoliate leaves with distinct parallel venation on leaflets; short petioles

Mature Plant: large, thin stipules; purple-colored flowers; positioned from the nodes of upper leaves; seed head is hidden by stipules

Method of Propagation: seed

Life Cycle: warm-season annual

Similar Species: sericea lespedeza – decipher based on leaf shape and stipules, kobe lespedeza – look for leaf shape and seed differences

References: Abaye, A. Ozzie. "Identification & Adaption: Common Grasses, Legumes & Non-leguminous Forbs of the Eastern United States."