Origin
Lathyrus vestitus Nutt. ssp. laetiflorus (Greene) Broich is a species of flowering plant in the family Fabaceae, native to western North America, specifically in California and Oregon.
Common Names
This plant is commonly known as Broadpod Everlasting-pea and is also referred to as Lathyrus laetiflorus or Lathyrus polyphyllus var. laetiflorus.
Uses
The Broadpod Everlasting-pea plant has many uses in different applications. It is used in ornamental purposes because of its attractive and colorful flowers. Additionally, the plant has a sweet edible root that the Native Americans used to eat raw. The plant also has medicinal properties. It contains alkaloids, saponins, and flavonoids that are used to relieve pain, cramps, and skin irritations.
General Appearance
Broadpod Everlasting-pea is a perennial plant that grows up to 1.5 m tall and has a widespread. The plant has pinnate leaves that are 10-20 cm long, with 3-6 pairs of leaflets. It produces flowers that are 2-3 cm long, arranged in clusters of 3-6. The flowers are usually pink or purple with a darker center. This plant can tolerate different soil types and prefers to grow in partially shaded areas.
Light Requirements
Lathyrus vestitus Nutt. ssp. laetiflorus (Greene) Broich is a sun-loving plant that thrives in direct sunlight. It requires full sun exposure to grow optimally and produce beautiful flowers.
Temperature Requirements
The temperature requirements for Lathyrus vestitus Nutt. ssp. laetiflorus (Greene) Broich vary depending on the location and time of year. It generally prefers warm and temperate climates, thriving in temperatures between 60-75°F (15-23°C). In hotter climates, it may require some shade protection during the hottest parts of the day to prevent heat stress.
Soil Requirements
Lathyrus vestitus Nutt. ssp. laetiflorus (Greene) Broich prefers loose, well-drained soil with a slightly acidic pH level of 6.0 to 6.8. It grows best in soil high in organic matter with good fertility. It also requires adequate moisture for optimal growth, but overwatering can lead to root rot, so it's important to maintain proper drainage.
Cultivation
Lathyrus vestitus Nutt. ssp. laetiflorus (Greene) Broich is a perennial flowering plant that can grow up to 2-3 feet tall and wide. It prefers full sun to partial shade and fertile, well-drained soil. It is hardy to USDA zones 6-9.
This plant can be propagated through seeds or cuttings. To grow from cuttings, take a stem cutting in early spring and plant in well-draining soil. Keep the soil moist until roots have established.
When planting seeds, scarification of the seed coat may improve germination. Sow seeds in the spring in well-prepared soil, about 1 inch deep, and 6 inches apart. This plant can also be grown in containers.
Watering Needs
Watering Lathyrus vestitus Nutt. ssp. laetiflorus (Greene) Broich should be done regularly during the growing season, keeping the soil moist but not soaked. Water deeply to encourage rooting and to prevent mildew on the leaves. In periods of drought, this plant may need additional watering.
Fertilization
This plant can benefit from a balanced fertilizer applied in early spring. Use a slow-release fertilizer or feed every 4-6 weeks during the growing season. Overfertilization should be avoided as it can cause excessive leaf growth and reduce flower production.
Pruning
To promote bushier growth and prevent flopping, pinch back stems in early spring before flowering. After blooming, remove the spent flowers and cut back to encourage a second flush of blooms. Cut back the plant to the ground in fall after it has died back.
Propagation of Lathyrus vestitus Nutt. ssp. laetiflorus (Greene) Broich
Lathyrus vestitus Nutt. ssp. laetiflorus (Greene) Broich, also known as Pacific pea, is a perennial plant that can be propagated by various methods.
Seed Propagation
The most common method of propagating Lathyrus vestitus Nutt. ssp. laetiflorus (Greene) Broich is through seed propagation. The seeds can be directly sown into the ground in the fall or spring, or started indoors and transplanted out in the spring. When using seeds, it is important to scarify or nick the seed coat to ensure germination. Cover the seeds with 1/4 inch of soil and water well. The seeds should germinate within 1-2 weeks.
Division
Lathyrus vestitus Nutt. ssp. laetiflorus (Greene) Broich can be propagated through division as well. Divide the plant in the spring or fall when the plant is dormant. Carefully dig up the root ball and separate the roots and crown into sections. Replant the new sections in well-draining soil and water well. The new plants should establish themselves within a few weeks.
Cuttings
Cuttings can also be taken from Lathyrus vestitus Nutt. ssp. laetiflorus (Greene) Broich to propagate new plants. Take 4-6 inch stem cuttings from new growth in the spring or summer. Remove the lower leaves and dip the cut end in rooting hormone. Plant the cuttings in well-draining soil and water well. Keep the soil moist and within a few weeks, new roots should form.
With proper care and maintenance, Lathyrus vestitus Nutt. ssp. laetiflorus (Greene) Broich can be easily propagated by any of the above methods. Choose the method that works best for you and enjoy the beautiful blooms of this lovely plant!
Disease Management
Lathyrus vestitus Nutt. ssp. laetiflorus (Greene) Broich is generally considered to be a disease-resistant plant. However, there are still several diseases that can affect it:
- Fungal leaf spot: This disease can cause yellow or brown spots on the leaves. To manage it, remove and destroy infected plant parts, and consider applying a fungicide.
- Powdery mildew: Symptoms of powdery mildew include a white dusting on the leaves. To manage it, use cultural practices such as thinning the plants to improve air circulation, and consider applying a fungicide.
- Bacterial wilt: This disease can cause wilting and yellowing of leaves. Unfortunately, there is no cure for bacterial wilt, and infected plants should be removed and destroyed to prevent it from spreading.
Preventing disease is the best way to manage it. This can be achieved by planting disease-resistant varieties, making sure the soil is well-draining, and avoiding over-watering.
Pest Management
While Lathyrus vestitus Nutt. ssp. laetiflorus (Greene) Broich is not particularly susceptible to pests, there are a few common ones to be aware of:
- Snails and slugs: These pests can eat holes in the leaves and flowers. To manage them, consider using physical barriers, such as copper tape or diatomaceous earth, or use bait stations to attract and kill them.
- Aphids: Aphids can suck the sap from the plant and cause stunted growth and distorted leaves. To manage them, use natural predators, such as ladybugs or lacewings, or spray the plant with a strong jet of water to dislodge them.
- Spider mites: These pests can cause yellowing of leaves and damage to the plant. To manage them, use cultural practices such as regularly washing the plant with a strong jet of water or applying an insecticidal soap.
Maintaining a healthy plant through good cultural practices such as regular watering and fertilizing can also help prevent pest infestations. Additionally, removing any weeds around the plant can remove a potential habitat for pests.
