Origin
Lathyrus polymorphus Nutt. ssp. incanus (Sm. & Rydb.) C.L. Hitchc. is a species of flowering plant that is native to North America.
Common Names
The plant is commonly known as Alberta wild pea, rare wild pea, and variable wild pea.
Uses
The plant is primarily used for ornamental purposes due to its attractive flowers. It is also used in habitat restoration projects to support pollinators and other wildlife species. However, caution must be taken when handling or consuming any parts of the plant as it contains toxic compounds that can cause paralysis or other health problems.
General Appearance
Lathyrus polymorphus Nutt. ssp. incanus (Sm. & Rydb.) C.L. Hitchc. is a herbaceous perennial that grows up to 60 cm tall. It has a rhizomatous root system and produces multiple stems that are slightly hairy when young but become smooth as they mature. The leaves are alternate and compound, with 3-9 leaflets that are ovate in shape and up to 4 cm long. The flowers are pea-like, with 2-10 blooms per stem. They are pink, purple, or white in color and bloom from May to June. The plant produces a legume fruit that is up to 8 cm long and contains multiple seeds.
Light Requirements
Lathyrus polymorphus Nutt. ssp. incanus (Sm. & Rydb.) C.L. Hitchc. prefers to grow in full sunlight. It may tolerate partial shade but it may result in reduced flowering. Therefore, it is important to plant it in a location that receives at least 6 hours of sunlight a day.
Temperature Requirements
Lathyrus polymorphus Nutt. ssp. incanus (Sm. & Rydb.) C.L. Hitchc. is a hardy plant and can tolerate a range of temperatures. It grows well in USDA hardiness zones 4-8. The ideal temperature range for its growth is between 18-22°C (64-72°F). However, it can withstand frost and freezing temperatures to some extent.
Soil Requirements
The plant prefers well-draining soils that are rich in organic matter. It can tolerate a wide range of soil pH, from slightly acidic to slightly alkaline (pH 6.0-7.5). It grows best in loamy soils that are moist but not waterlogged. If the soil is heavy, adding organic matter like compost or well-decomposed manure can improve drainage and aeration.
Cultivation methods:
Lathyrus polymorphus Nutt. ssp. incanus (Sm. & Rydb.) C.L. Hitchc.is a hardy plant and prefers full sunlight or partial shade. It grows well in well-draining soil with some organic matter incorporated into it. The seeds can be directly sown into the soil after the last frost, or they can be started indoors a few weeks before the last frost to help with germination. Transplant seedlings when they have developed two to three leaves, and space them about six inches apart.
Watering needs:
Lathyrus polymorphus Nutt. ssp. incanus (Sm. & Rydb.) C.L. Hitchc. prefers regular watering and requires moisture to thrive. It is essential to keep the soil consistently moist, but not waterlogged. Monitor the soil moisture by placing your finger into the soil at a depth of around two inches. If the soil feels dry, it is time to water.
Fertilization:
It is best to fertilize Lathyrus polymorphus Nutt. ssp. incanus (Sm. & Rydb.) C.L. Hitchc. once every three to four weeks during the growing season. You can use an all-purpose fertilizer that has a balanced ratio of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. Alternatively, you can use a slow-release fertilizer at the beginning of the season, and it will feed the plant gradually. Avoid over-fertilizing, as this can cause the plants to become too bushy, with fewer flowers.
Pruning:
Lathyrus polymorphus Nutt. ssp. incanus (Sm. & Rydb.) C.L. Hitchc. does not require pruning, but it is good to remove spent flowers and seep pods regularly. By deadheading the flowers, you promote the development of new flowers and encourage a healthy growth habit. Cut the stem just below the spent flower or pod, and dispose of it in the compost pile.
Propagation of Lathyrus polymorphus Nutt. ssp. incanus (Sm. & Rydb.) C.L. Hitchc.
Lathyrus polymorphus Nutt. ssp. incanus (Sm. & Rydb.) C.L. Hitchc. can be propagated in a few different ways.
Seed Propagation
The most common method of propagating Lathyrus polymorphus Nutt. ssp. incanus (Sm. & Rydb.) C.L. Hitchc. is through seed propagation. The seeds can be sown directly into the soil in the early spring or fall. The soil should be well-draining and the seeds should be covered with about ¼ inch of soil. The seeds will germinate in about 1-2 weeks.
Cutting Propagation
Cutting propagation can also be successful with Lathyrus polymorphus Nutt. ssp. incanus (Sm. & Rydb.) C.L. Hitchc. Take 3-4 inch cuttings from the tips of the plant in the spring. Remove the lower leaves and place the cuttings in a pot with moist soil. Keep the soil moist and the cuttings should root in about 2-3 weeks.
Division Propagation
Division propagation can be used to propagate Lathyrus polymorphus Nutt. ssp. incanus (Sm. & Rydb.) C.L. Hitchc. as well. This method should be done in the early spring or fall. Dig up the plant and separate it into sections, making sure each section has roots attached. Replant the sections into well-draining soil.
Disease Management
Lathyrus polymorphus subspecies incanus is generally considered a disease-resistant plant. However, it can still be affected by fungal diseases such as powdery mildew and rust. Powdery mildew can cause a white powdery layer on the leaves and stems, while rust creates orange or brown rust spots on leaves and stems.
To manage powdery mildew, avoid overhead watering to prevent water from settling on the leaves. If the disease has already infected the plant, remove the infected parts and use fungicides such as neem oil to control its spread. For rust, remove the infected parts, apply fungicides, and make sure to dispose of any fallen leaves and debris to prevent further spread.
Pest Management
Lathyrus polymorphus subspecies incanus is generally not affected by many pests. However, some pests such as aphids and spider mites can still infest the plant.
To manage aphids, spray the plant with a hard stream of water or use insecticidal soap. For spider mites, increase humidity around the plant by regularly misting the leaves, and use insecticidal soap or neem oil to control infestations.
Regularly inspecting the plant and taking early pest control measures can help prevent more severe infestations and damage to the plant.
