Origin
Lathyrus maritimus Bigelow ssp. pubescens (Hartman) Regel, also known as pubescent beach pea, is a species of flowering plant in the pea family Fabaceae. It is native to the northern coastal areas of North America, including Canada, Alaska, and the northeastern United States.
Common Names
The pubescent beach pea is commonly referred to by several other names, including hairy vetchling, hairy beach pea, and seaside pea. In Inuktitut, an indigenous language spoken in parts of Canada and Greenland, the plant is known as qajuittuq.
Appearance
The pubescent beach pea is a low-growing perennial plant that typically grows to a height of 30-60 cm. Its leaves are composed of two ovate leaflets, each measuring 2-7 cm in length. The plant's flowers are small and purple, measuring 1-2 cm in diameter, and they bloom from June to August. The pubescent beach pea produces a pod that is about 3-4 cm in length, which contains 2-10 seeds.
Uses
Traditionally, the pubescent beach pea has been used by various indigenous peoples for both food and medicinal purposes. The plant's seeds are high in protein and carbohydrates, and they can be roasted, boiled, or ground into flour. The pubescent beach pea also contains various phytochemicals that are believed to have medicinal properties, such as its ability to reduce inflammation and boost the immune system. Additionally, the pubescent beach pea is commonly used in coastal restoration projects to help stabilize sand dunes and prevent erosion.
Growth Conditions for Lathyrus maritimus Bigelow ssp. pubescens (Hartman) Regel
Light Requirements: Lathyrus maritimus Bigelow ssp. pubescens (Hartman) Regel prefers full sun to partial shade. The plant requires a minimum of six hours of direct sunlight per day to thrive.
Temperature Requirements: This plant is adapted to grow in cool, temperate climates. Lathyrus maritimus Bigelow ssp. pubescens (Hartman) Regel prefers temperatures between 50 and 70 degrees Fahrenheit (10 to 21°C). Hot temperatures can damage the plant, so it is best to avoid planting it in areas where temperatures regularly exceed 80°F (27°C).
Soil Requirements: Lathyrus maritimus Bigelow ssp. pubescens (Hartman) Regel prefers well-drained, sandy or rocky soil. The plant can tolerate moderately saline soil conditions as it is well adapted to grow in coastal environments. Soil pH should be between 6.5 and 7.5. It is best to avoid soils with high levels of organic matter as this can cause the plant to become too lush.
Cultivation
Lathyrus maritimus Bigelow ssp. pubescens (Hartman) Regel is a plant species that prefers full sun to partial shade. It grows well in sandy or loamy soils and prefers a slightly acidic pH between 6.0 and 7.5. It is important to ensure that the soil is well-drained to avoid waterlogging, which can lead to root rot. The plant can be propagated using seeds or by dividing existing clumps. Seeds should be sown in early spring or fall, and the young shoots should be planted at a depth of 3-4 inches.
Watering Needs
Lathyrus maritimus Bigelow ssp. pubescens (Hartman) Regel requires moderate watering throughout the growing season. It is important to water the plant deeply once a week rather than frequent shallow watering, which can cause shallow roots and make the plant more susceptible to drought. However, care must be taken not to overwater the plant, as this can lead to root rot.
Fertilization
Lathyrus maritimus Bigelow ssp. pubescens (Hartman) Regel does not require high levels of fertilization. A balanced fertilizer once at the start of the growing season should be sufficient. However, if the plant appears to be struggling, a light application of nitrogen-rich fertilizer may be necessary in the early summer.
Pruning
The plant does not require regular pruning, but deadheading the spent blooms can help encourage new growth and prolong flowering. In the fall, the stems can be cut down to ground level, and a layer of mulch can be put over the roots to protect them over the winter months.
Propagation of Lathyrus maritimus Bigelow ssp. pubescens (Hartman) Regel
Lathyrus maritimus Bigelow ssp. pubescens (Hartman) Regel, commonly known as Beach Pea, is a perennial legume that is native to the coastal regions of North America. It is a hardy plant that grows well in sandy or rocky soils, making it ideal for dune stabilization and erosion control projects. Propagation of this plant can be achieved through several methods.
Seed Propagation
Seeds are the most common method of propagating Lathyrus maritimus. The seeds of this plant can be obtained from the pods that develop after flowering. The pods can be harvested once they turn brown and dry on the plant. After harvesting the pods, they can be left to dry further until they split open, revealing the seeds inside. The seeds can then be stored in a cool and dry place, ready for planting.
The seeds should be planted in early spring or fall. They can be directly sowed in the soil, or started indoors and transplanted to the garden later. The soil should be well-drained and rich in organic matter. The seeds should be planted at a depth of about 1-2 inches and spaced about 4-6 inches apart. After planting, the soil should be kept moist until the seedlings emerge.
Division Propagation
Division propagation is another method of propagating Lathyrus maritimus. This method involves dividing the mature clumps of the plant into smaller sections and replanting them in a new location. This method is best done in spring or fall when the plant is not actively growing.
To propagate through division, dig up the plant clump and carefully separate the roots into smaller sections. Each section should have a few healthy shoots and roots. Replant the divided sections in a well-draining soil mixture, and water them well.
Cuttings Propagation
Propagation of Lathyrus maritimus can also be achieved through cuttings. This method involves taking stem cuttings from the parent plant and rooting them in soil or water.
To propagate through cuttings, take stem cuttings that are 4-6 inches long and contain one or two nodes. Remove the leaves from the lower part of the stem and dip it in a rooting hormone. Plant the cutting in a well-draining soil mixture and water it well. Alternatively, the cutting can be placed in water until roots develop.
Propagation of Lathyrus maritimus is relatively easy and can be done through seed propagation, division propagation, or cuttings propagation. Each method has its own advantages, and gardeners can choose the best method that suits their needs.
Disease Management
Lathyrus maritimus Bigelow ssp. pubescens is generally a resilient plant and is not susceptible to many common plant diseases. However, it may still be affected by fungal infections such as powdery mildew and rust. Powdery mildew appears as white or grayish-white powdery spots on the leaves, while rust shows up as orange to brownish pustules on the foliage. To manage these diseases, remove infected plant parts immediately and consider using a fungicide. Consider choosing a fungicide that contains copper as it is the most effective for treating powdery mildew and rust.
Pest Management
There are several common pests that can affect Lathyrus maritimus Bigelow ssp. pubescens, including aphids, spider mites, and thrips. Aphids are small insects that tend to cluster on the foliage. They cause damage to the plant by feeding on the sap, resulting in yellowing and curling of the leaves. Spider mites are tiny arachnids that spin fine webs on the leaves and feed on the plant, causing the leaves to appear stippled or discolored. Thrips are slender insects that feed on the leaves, causing them to have a silvery appearance. To manage these pests, it is important to monitor the plant regularly and to remove any affected areas immediately. Consider using insecticidal soap or horticultural oil to treat aphids and spider mites. Spraying the plant with beneficial nematodes can also be an effective control measure for these pests. For thrips, consider spraying the plant with a neem oil solution or insecticidal soap, and using sticky traps to catch the insects.
