Origin
Lathyrus palustris L. var. myrtifolius (Muhl. ex Willd.) Gray, commonly known as the marsh pea or bog sweet pea, is a slow-growing plant that belongs to the pea family Fabaceae. The plant is native to North America and can be found in wetlands and bogs throughout the eastern and central regions of the continent, including Alaska, Canada, and the United States.
Common Names
The marsh pea has a variety of common names, including bog sweet pea, swamp vetchling, wild sweet pea, wild pea, and bog vetchling. These names are based on the plant's natural habitat, its sweet fragrance, and its pea-like appearance.
Uses
Despite containing toxic chemical compounds, the marsh pea has several medicinal uses. The plant has analgesic, anti-inflammatory, and diuretic properties, which have traditionally been used to treat pain, swelling, and urinary problems. Additionally, some indigenous tribes in North America have used the plant to treat dermatological conditions such as eczema.
The marsh pea is also valued for its ornamental qualities. Its delicate pink and purple flowers are an attractive addition to gardens and wetland landscapes.
General Appearance
The marsh pea is a perennial herb that grows up to 60 cm tall from a woody, creeping rootstock. The plant possesses slender, green stems that climb over other vegetation or drape over the ground. The leaves are small, alternate and oval-shaped, with a smooth and glossy texture. The flowers are pea-like, pink, and purple, and appear in the summer. The fruit is a flat and elongated legume that contains several seeds.
The marsh pea thrives in moist to wet soils and can tolerate partial to full sun exposure. Its slow growth rate and preference for wetland habitats make it ideal for naturalizing pond margins and other damp areas.
Light requirements
Lathyrus palustris L. var. myrtifolius typically grows in full sun to partial shade. It tolerates shade but will produce fewer flowers. In order to ensure good growth, the plant should receive at least six hours of direct sunlight per day.
Temperature requirements
This plant is adapted to cooler climates and can tolerate temperatures as low as -40°C. It grows best in temperatures between 10-25°C. In hotter climates, it may go dormant during the summer months to conserve energy.
Soil requirements
Lathyrus palustris L. var. myrtifolius requires moist, well-drained soil. It prefers acidic to neutral soils (pH 5.0-7.0) and is tolerant of soil types ranging from sandy to heavy clay. It is commonly found growing in wetland and riparian areas, suggesting it prefers soils that are rich in organic matter.
Cultivation and care of Lathyrus palustris var. myrtifolius
Lathyrus palustris var. myrtifolius is a hardy perennial plant that requires well-drained soil and ample sunlight for optimal growth.
Planting:
The best time to plant Lathyrus palustris var. myrtifolius is in early spring or late fall. Before planting, prepare the soil by adding organic matter such as compost or well-rotted manure.
Plant the seedlings 6 inches apart and to a depth of 1 inch. Water the seedlings immediately after planting.
Watering needs:
Lathyrus palustris var. myrtifolius prefers moist soil, but it does not tolerate standing water. Water the plant regularly, making sure the soil is evenly moist but not waterlogged.
During the growing season, increase watering if the weather is particularly hot and dry. However, reduce watering in the fall to prevent waterlogging of the roots.
Fertilization:
Feed Lathyrus palustris var. myrtifolius with a balanced fertilizer once in the spring and again in mid-summer. Use a slow-release or controlled-release fertilizer that will provide nutrients to the plant over several months.
Pruning:
Prune Lathyrus palustris var. myrtifolius in the spring to remove any damaged or dead stems. This will improve airflow and prevent the spread of diseases.
During the growing season, pinch back the tips of the plant to encourage branching and more flowers. Deadhead regularly to prolong the flowering season.
With these few tips, you can successfully grow and care for Lathyrus palustris var. myrtifolius, a beautiful and hardy perennial plant.
Propagation of Lathyrus palustris L. var. myrtifolius (Muhl. ex Willd.) Gray
Lathyrus palustris L. var. myrtifolius (Muhl. ex Willd.) Gray is propagated through several methods, including:
1. Seed Propagation
Seeds of Lathyrus palustris L. var. myrtifolius (Muhl. ex Willd.) Gray can be directly sown into the soil during spring or fall, or they can be stratified before sowing to break their dormancy. Seeds should be sown ¼ to ½ inch deep, and the seedlings will appear in approximately 1-2 weeks. The plants may begin to flower in their second year.
2. Division
Mature Lathyrus palustris L. var. myrtifolius (Muhl. ex Willd.) Gray plants can be carefully dug up in early spring, and their root systems can be divided into smaller sections using a sharp, sterile knife or garden shears. Each section should have at least one healthy stem and a healthy root system. The sections can be replanted into prepared soil, ensuring they are watered well and protected from direct sunlight until they become established.
3. Stem Cuttings
Stem cuttings of Lathyrus palustris L. var. myrtifolius (Muhl. ex Willd.) Gray can also be used for propagation. Cuttings should be taken from mature plants during the growing season, and they should be approximately 4-6 inches in length, with 2-3 sets of leaves. The cuttings should be planted in moist soil, treated with rooting hormone, and covered with clear plastic. They should be kept in indirect light and misted regularly until roots begin to form, after which the plastic can be removed, and the cuttings can be transplanted into prepared soil.
Disease Management
Lathyrus palustris L. var. myrtifolius is generally a healthy plant that is not prone to many serious diseases. However, there are some ailments that may affect it.
Anthracnose: This fungal disease may occur in wet weather conditions and leads to brown or black spots on the leaves. Prune and dispose of any affected leaves and stems, and apply a fungicide as necessary.
Root Rot: Overwatering or poor drainage may cause root rot, resulting in wilting, yellowing, and eventual death. Improve soil drainage and avoid overwatering to prevent this disease.
Powdery Mildew: This fungal disease appears as a white, powdery coating on the leaves, and can cause leaf curling and distortion. Improve air circulation and avoid watering the foliage to prevent powdery mildew. Apply a fungicide if necessary.
Pest Management
Lathyrus palustris L. var. myrtifolius may be bothered by a few pests, but they are usually not serious and can be managed with preventive measures.
Aphids: These small, soft-bodied insects may cluster on the leaves, sucking sap and causing stunted growth. Hose off the plant with water or apply insecticidal soap as necessary to control aphids.
Slugs and Snails: These pests leave slime trails and chew irregular holes in the leaves. Handpick them off the plant and apply organic slug and snail bait to the soil to control them.
Spider Mites: These tiny mites may cause webbing on the leaves and a yellow stippling pattern. Increase humidity around the plant and apply insecticidal soap to control spider mites.
