Question

I would like to plant lespedeza for my horses. What type (genus and species) is most appropriate?

Answer

Which type of lespedeza to plant will depend on whether you plan on grazing it or growing it to be made into hay, as the types have different growing patterns. For horses, you would probably want to look for low-tannin sericea lespedeza (Lespedeza cuneate) such as the types developed by Auburn University (AU-Lotan and AU-Donnelly). These types tend to have better palatability.

The only recent research done specifically on lespedeza in horses is a study looking at a high-tannin variety for parasite control, and it did not appear to make a difference in parasitism, as it has in goats.

The local or state Cooperative Extension office will be a great resource for you and should be able to provide you with information on which forages grow best in your area. Aside from that, a local farm supply store that sells seed may be of assistance in choosing the best lespedeza to plant.