Overview:
Lathyrus nervosus, also known as the Veiny pea, is a beautiful and striking perennial herbaceous vine. Native to the western regions of North America, this plant is an eye-catching addition to any garden with its beautiful flowers and unusual foliage.
Appearance:
The plant typically grows up to 3 feet tall and spreads up to 5 feet wide, climbing through other vegetation with its slender, twining stems. The leaves are distinctly veined with a glossy dark green color on the top and a lighter green on the underside, and they alternate in an arrangement along the stem. The flower clusters are borne on stems that rise above the foliage in the summer and are made up of bright, striking purplish-red or magenta pea-like flowers, which eventually give way to interesting seed pods that look like mini beans.
Common Names:
Lathyrus nervosus goes by several common names that refer to its appearance, including Veiny pea, Bitter vetch, and Wild sweet pea.
Uses:
Although not used much in modern times, Lathyrus nervosus has a long history of medicinal use by Indigenous people. They reportedly used the plant to relieve coughs and colds and believed the roots had astringent properties that could affect digestion and stop bleeding.
From a horticultural perspective, Lathyrus nervosus is a great accompanying plant that adds color and texture to other plants, particularly as it climbs up trees, trellises, and walls as a garden ornamental.
Light requirements
Lathyrus nervosus thrives in partial to full sunlight exposure. The plant requires around six hours of direct sunlight exposure daily to enable optimal growth and development. However, excessively high sunlight exposure may lead to dehydration and leaf burn.
Temperature requirements
The plant prefers moderate temperatures ranging between 16 to 21°C (60 to 70°F). The ideal temperature range for optimal growth and development is between 18 to 20°C (65 to 68°F). Lathyrus nervosus is susceptible to frost and cannot withstand temperatures below -7°C (20°F).
Soil requirements
Lathyrus nervosus prefers well-draining soil with a slightly acidic to neutral pH level of 6.5 to 7.0. The soil should be rich in organic matter and adequately aerated. Additionally, the plant requires soil that is moist but not waterlogged to enable optimal root growth. It is important to ensure the soil is weed-free and is not compacted as it could impede root development.
Cultivation and Care of Lathyrus nervosus
Lathyrus nervosus, commonly known as yellow pea or nervose pea, is a beautiful, hardy flowering plant that can be grown in gardens, patios, and balcony containers. The following are some tips on cultivating and caring for this lovely plant:
Soil and Sun Requirements
Lathyrus nervosus thrives in fertile, well-drained soil with a slightly acidic pH level of 6.0 to 6.5. It prefers full sun to partial shade, so it is recommended to plant it in an area with access to at least six hours of sunlight per day. Since it is a climber, it is best to provide some kind of support for it to grow upwards.
Watering Needs
Lathyrus nervosus requires an adequate amount of water during the growing season. Watering should be done deeply and regularly to prevent stress as the soil dries out. It is important to monitor the plant during wet conditions to avoid overwatering, which can cause root rot. Use mulch to retain moisture and keep weeds at bay.
Fertilizer
Lathyrus nervosus responds well to regular fertilization with slow-release granular or liquid fertilizer. Apply a balanced organic fertilizer according to the manufacturer's recommendations at the start of the growing season, and again after the first flush of blooms. Avoid overfertilization, which can lead to an excess of lush foliage and poor blooming performance.
Pruning
Lathyrus nervosus requires regular pruning, especially in the fall when it starts to die back. Cut back the stems to ground level and remove any diseased or damaged leaves, stems, and flowers. During the growing season, pinch off the tips of the stems to encourage bushier growth and more blooms.
Following these simple cultivation and care tips will ensure that Lathyrus nervosus thrives and adds beauty to your garden or outdoor space.
Propagation of Lathyrus nervosus
Lathyrus nervosus, commonly known as wild sweetpea, is a flowering perennial plant native to North America. This plant grows in moist, rocky areas and can be propagated through a variety of methods.
Seed Propagation
One of the most common ways to propagate Lathyrus nervosus is through seed. The seeds should be collected in the fall, after the pods have dried out and turned brown. The seeds should be stored in a dry, cool place until the following spring when they can be sown directly in the ground or started indoors.
If starting the seeds indoors, it is recommended to do so in late winter or early spring. The seeds should be planted in containers filled with moist soil and placed in a bright, warm location. After the seeds have sprouted, they can be transplanted outdoors once the danger of frost has passed.
Division Propagation
Another method of propagation for Lathyrus nervosus is through division. This method is best done in the early spring before new growth appears. The plant should be dug up carefully, and the root ball should be separated into smaller sections. Each section should have a few stems and a healthy root system.
After the sections have been separated, they can be planted in the ground or in containers filled with moist soil. It is important to keep the soil moist in the first few weeks after planting to ensure adequate root development.
Cuttings Propagation
Propagation through cuttings is another viable method for Lathyrus nervosus. Cuttings should be taken from the softwood tips of the plant in the early summer. The cuttings should be approximately five inches long, stripped of their lower leaves, and placed in moist soil or a container filled with water. Once roots have formed, the cuttings can be planted in the ground or in containers.
Overall, Lathyrus nervosus is a relatively easy plant to propagate through seed, division, or cuttings. With the proper care and attention, new plants can be established in a relatively short period of time.
Disease and Pest Management for Lathyrus Nervosus
Lathyrus nervosus, also known as the Nervous Pea, is a hardy and easy-to-grow plant. It is not generally prone to diseases if grown in proper conditions. Pests, however, can be a problem. Here are some common diseases and pests that might affect the plant and ways to manage them:
Diseases
Anthracnose: This fungal disease appears as dark, sunken spots on leaves. To manage this disease, remove infected plant parts and avoid overhead watering. Apply a fungicidal spray according to instructions.
Powdery mildew: This fungal disease appears as a white powdery coating on leaves. To manage this disease, remove infected plant parts and maintain good air circulation. Apply a fungicidal spray according to instructions.
Rust: This fungal disease appears as rust-colored spots on leaves. To manage this disease, remove infected plant parts and avoid overhead watering. Apply a fungicidal spray according to instructions. Keep the site free of plant debris to prevent rust from overwintering.
Pests
Aphids: These sap-sucking insects can be recognized by their pear-shaped bodies and long legs. To manage aphids, use natural predators like ladybugs or lacewings. Alternatively, use insecticidal soap or neem oil according to instructions.
Spider mites: These tiny pests can be difficult to spot, but they leave a fine webbing on leaves. To manage spider mites, use a forceful spray of water on the leaves or apply insecticidal soap or neem oil according to instructions.
Cutworms: These pests chew through plant stems at the soil level. To manage cutworms, use physical barriers like collars made of cardboard or aluminum foil around the plant stems. Alternatively, apply an insecticide containing Bacillus thuringiensis according to instructions.
By following these tips for disease and pest management, you can keep your Lathyrus nervosus plants healthy and thriving.
