Origin
Lathyrus nevadensis S. Wats. ssp. lanceolatus (T.J. Howell) C.L. Hitchc. is a native plant of North America, particularly in the western regions, including Rocky Mountains, Sierra Nevada, and Pacific Northwest. It typically thrives in moist and rocky soils, often found in alpine and subalpine habitats.
Common Names
This plant is commonly known as lanceleaf wild sweet pea and Nevada sweet pea, referring to its characteristic lance-shaped leaflets and its distribution in the Nevada region, respectively.
Uses
While L. nevadensis ssp. lanceolatus is not typically cultivated for commercial purposes, it is valued for its aesthetic beauty and contributions to the ecosystem. Its sapphire-blue flowers serve as a food source for a diverse array of pollinators, including bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds. Additionally, its nitrogen-fixing roots and seeds can aid in soil enrichment and regeneration.
Appearance
Lathyrus nevadensis ssp. lanceolatus is a perennial herb that typically grows from 10-40 cm in height. It produces slender stems that are coated with fine hairs and may climb or sprawl depending on the support. The leaves are composed of 5-7 pairs of leaflets, ranging from narrowly oblong to lance-shaped, and measuring up to 5 cm in length. The flowers bloom from May to August, with 1-3 blossoms per stem. The flowers have a characteristic sweet pea shape, with a banner petal that is slightly twisted and a keel petal that is curved like a boat. The blossoms are typically blue or violet, although they may occasionally be pink or white.
Light Requirements
Lathyrus nevadensis ssp. lanceolatus requires full sun to partial shade for optimum growth. In areas with extreme heat, partial shade may be required to prevent wilting due to high temperatures.
Temperature Requirements
The plant thrives in a wide range of temperatures, with daytime temperatures ranging from 21-32°C (70-90°F) and nighttime temperatures ranging from 10-18°C (50-65°F). However, it can tolerate extreme temperatures ranging from 4-37°C (40-100°F).
Soil Requirements
Lathyrus nevadensis ssp. lanceolatus prefers well-drained soils that are moist but not waterlogged. The soil should be fertile with a pH level ranging from neutral to slightly alkaline. Adding organic matter such as compost or manure can help improve soil fertility and structure.
The plant can tolerate a wide range of soil types, including sandy, loamy, and clay soils. However, it is best to avoid soils that are compacted, as this can limit root growth and reduce the plant's ability to take up nutrients and water.
Cultivation Methods
Lathyrus nevadensis S. Wats. ssp. lanceolatus (T.J. Howell) C.L. Hitchc., also known as Sierra Pea, is a hardy plant that is relatively easy to grow. It prefers full sun to partial shade and well-draining soil. It can be propagated by seed or by division of the root ball.
Watering Needs
Sierra Pea requires moderate watering and should not be allowed to dry out completely or sit in standing water. It is also important not to water the leaves, as this can lead to fungal diseases. Water deeply but infrequently to encourage deep root growth.
Fertilization
Sierra Pea does not require a lot of fertilization, although it can benefit from a balanced fertilizer applied in the spring. Do not fertilize after late summer, as this can encourage new growth that may be damaged by frost.
Pruning
Pruning is not necessary for Sierra Pea, but it can benefit from deadheading to encourage continuous blooming. Remove spent flowers by cutting the stem just above the first set of leaves. If the plant becomes too leggy, it can be cut back to encourage bushier growth.
Propagation of Lathyrus nevadensis S. Wats. ssp. lanceolatus (T.J. Howell) C.L. Hitchc.
Lathyrus nevadensis S. Wats. ssp. lanceolatus (T.J. Howell) C.L. Hitchc. can be propagated through several methods such as seeds, cuttings, and division.
Propagation through Seeds
The easiest way to propagate Lathyrus nevadensis is through seeds. Collect mature seed pods in the fall and dry them for a few days. Sow the seeds in moist soil in spring or summer after the last frost has passed. The seeds will germinate within 7 to 14 days if kept warm and moist.
Propagation through Cuttings
Lathyrus nevadensis can also be propagated through stem cuttings. Take cuttings from new growth in late spring or early summer. Cut a 6 to 8 inches long stem and remove the leaves from the bottom half. Dip the cut end of the stem in rooting hormone and plant it in moist soil. Keep it in a warm, shaded location and maintain soil moisture until roots are established.
Propagation through Division
In the spring, the plant can be divided by digging up the entire plant and dividing the roots. Separate the stems and leaves and replant each division separately. Be sure to keep soil moist while the plant establishes itself in its new location.
Disease and Pest Management for Lathyrus nevadensis S. Wats. ssp. lanceolatus (T.J. Howell) C.L. Hitchc.
Lathyrus nevadensis S. Wats. ssp. lanceolatus (T.J. Howell) C.L. Hitchc. is a plant species that is usually resistant to diseases and pests. Nonetheless, they can still be affected by some common diseases and pests. Knowledge of disease and pest management is essential to ensure the survival of these plants.
Common Diseases and Pests
1. Powdery Mildew: It is a fungal infection characterized by white powdery spots on the leaves that may cause the plant to wilt and fall. It thrives in warm, humid environments.
2. Rust: Rust appears as tiny yellow or orange spots on the bottom of the leaves and can quickly spread to the top of the plant.
3. Aphids: These tiny insects are usually found underneath the leaves and can cause the plant to wilt and lose vigor.
Disease and Pest Management Techniques
1. Powdery Mildew: To manage powdery mildew, remove the infected parts of the plant and dispose of them properly. Apply a fungicide or use organic neem oil as a preventative measure.
2. Rust: To control rust, use fungicides and remove infected plants from surrounding healthy ones to avoid the spread of spores.
3. Aphids: To manage aphids, wash them off with strong streams of water or prune leaves affected with aphids. Encourage natural predators like ladybugs and parasitic wasps. Another option is to use insecticidal soap or neem oil as a spray.
By maintaining good garden hygiene and recognizing signs of disease or pests early on, it is possible to minimize the damage and keep Lathyrus nevadensis S. Wats. ssp. lanceolatus (T.J. Howell) C.L. Hitchc. plants healthy.
