Plant Description:
Lathyrus lanszwertii Kellogg var. brownii (Eastw.) Jepson is a perennial herbaceous plant that belongs to the family Fabaceae. It can grow up to 1 meter tall and produces climbing stems with tendrils to support its growth.
Origin and Common Names:
Lathyrus lanszwertii Kellogg var. brownii (Eastw.) Jepson is native to California and can be found in the North Coast Ranges, the northern Sierra Nevada, and the Klamath Mountains. It is commonly known as Brown's pea or Brown's vetchling.
Uses:
Lathyrus lanszwertii Kellogg var. brownii has edible tuberous roots that were traditionally consumed by Native American tribes in California. The roots were roasted or boiled and eaten as a vegetable or used to make a flour that was used in bread-making. The plant also has ornamental qualities and is used in garden landscaping for its attractive flowers.
General Appearance:
The leaves of Lathyrus lanszwertii Kellogg var. brownii are pinnate and made up of 4-10 pairs of leaflet blades. The flowers are irregular and have asymmetrical petals that range in color from pink to purple. The plant produces small pods filled with seeds that can be used for propagation. Overall, the plant has a graceful appearance and is a lovely addition to any garden or natural landscape.
Light Requirements
Lathyrus lanszwertii Kellogg var. brownii (Eastw.) Jepson grows best in full sunlight exposure. It can also survive in light shades, but its growth will be slower and weaker. Therefore, it is essential to provide enough light to encourage full growth potential.
Temperature Requirements
The plant thrives in a range of temperatures between 10°C to 25°C. However, its growth is optimal at 18°C to 24°C. It can tolerate average summer temperatures of up to 30°C, but will require enough water to survive. Low temperatures during winter below 0°C can kill the plant. Therefore, it is crucial to grow it indoors in colder areas.
Soil Requirements
The plant grows well in a variety of soils but prefers well-drained and moist soils. Sandy loam soils with a pH of 6 to 7.5 are ideal for Lathyrus lanszwertii Kellogg var. brownii (Eastw.) Jepson. It can withstand acidic soils with a pH of up to 5.5, but alkaline soils are not ideal for growth. The plant requires regular watering during the growing season to keep the soil moist.
Cultivation
Lathyrus lanszwertii Kellogg var. brownii (Eastw.) Jepson is a hardy plant that thrives in cool and temperate climates. They prefer loamy, well-drained soil and need full sunlight exposure to grow properly.
Since it is a climbing plant, it requires support such as stakes or trellis to climb on. Make sure that the support structure is strong enough to hold the plant's weight as it grows.
Plant the seeds or seedlings during the early spring and maintain a distance of at least six inches between each plant. Be sure to keep in mind that this variety of Lathyrus lanszwertii Kellogg can grow up to three feet tall and will need sufficient space to spread out.
Watering Needs
Lathyrus lanszwertii Kellogg var. brownii (Eastw.) Jepson prefers regular watering, especially during the initial stages of growth. Keep the soil moist, but not overly wet, as too much water can lead to root rot.
During the hot summer months, it is recommended to water this plant frequently, once or twice a day, to prevent dehydration and wilting. However, be sure not to water during the hottest part of the day, as the heat can cause the water to evaporate quickly, leaving the plant dry again.
Fertilization
This plant requires regular fertilization to promote healthy growth. Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer during the early spring. Repeat the process every four to six weeks during the growing season to keep the soil nutrient-rich.
Be cautious not to over-fertilize, as it can lead to an excess of foliage and few flowers. Using too much fertilizer can also cause the plant to develop weak stems that cannot support the weight of the flowers.
Pruning
To promote proper growth and prevent overcrowding, it is recommended to prune Lathyrus lanszwertii Kellogg var. brownii (Eastw.) Jepson regularly. Cut back the stems and tendrils that have grown past the support structure or are touching the ground.
Be very careful when pruning, as this plant tends to cling tightly to its support structure, making it easy to accidentally damage the stems or leaves. It is recommended to do your pruning in the early spring or late fall when the plant is dormant.
Propagation Methods
The Lathyrus lanszwertii Kellogg var. brownii (Eastw.) Jepson, commonly known as Brown's Peavine, can be propagated through two primary methods - seeds and stem cuttings. It is recommended to propagate the plant during the spring and summer months for optimal results.
Propagation via Seeds
Seeds are the most common method of propagation for Brown's Peavine. The seeds should be sown in a well-draining soil mix and kept moist until germination, which typically takes about 7-10 days. Once germinated, the seedlings can be transplanted into individual pots or directly into the ground after hardening off. It is recommended to keep them in a shaded area for a few days before transplanting into the sun to minimize transplant shock.
Propagation via Stem Cuttings
The stem cutting method requires taking a cutting from a healthy and mature Brown's Peavine plant. The ideal time to take a cutting is during the spring season when growth is most vigorous. It is recommended to take a cutting 4-6 inches in length and remove the lower leaves, leaving the top growth intact. The cutting should then be placed in a well-draining potting mix, kept moist and placed in a shaded area until roots are established. The cutting can then be transplanted into the ground or larger pot.
Disease Management
Lathyrus lanszwertii Kellogg var. brownii is susceptible to various diseases, which can affect the plant's growth and overall health. Here are some common diseases and ways to manage them:
Anthracnose
Anthracnose is a fungal disease that can cause leaf spots, stem cankers, and blights. To manage anthracnose, it's essential to keep the plant's foliage dry and to remove infected plant parts immediately. Additionally, apply a fungicide as recommended by a qualified professional.
Root Rot
Root rot is a fungal disease that can cause the plant to wilt and eventually die. To manage root rot, avoid overwatering and ensure that the soil drains effectively. Additionally, remove any infected plant parts and apply a fungicide as recommended by a qualified professional.
Pest Management
Lathyrus lanszwertii Kellogg var. brownii is also susceptible to various pests, including insects and mites, which can affect the plant's growth and overall health. Here are some common pests and ways to manage them:
Aphids
Aphids are small, soft-bodied insects that suck the sap from the plant's leaves and stems, causing stunted growth and distorted leaves. To manage aphids, use a strong jet of water or insecticidal soap to remove them from the plant. Additionally, introduce natural predators, such as ladybugs or lacewings.
Spider Mites
Spider mites are tiny pests that can cause yellowing leaves and webbing on the plant. To manage spider mites, remove any infected plant parts and spray the plant with water to dislodge the pests. Additionally, introduce natural predators, such as predatory mites or lacewings.
Cutworms
Cutworms are caterpillars that can chew through the plant's stem at soil level, causing the plant to wilt and die. To manage cutworms, create a physical barrier around the plant's stem with cardboard or a commercial collar. Additionally, apply a biological insecticide containing Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt).
