Wild-Pea Lathyrus Play pronunciation

Lathyrus is a genus of over 180 species of annual or perennial, herbaceous vines with winged stems and showy flowers. It is the largest member of the bean family (Fabaceae) and is commonly known as sweet pea. The different species may be climbing or bushy, and they are found in temperate regions of Europe, North America, Asia, and portions of Africa and South America. Depending on the species, sweet pea can grow from 1 to 9 feet tall. The flowers are pea-like, with a sweet fragrance, and come in a variety of colors, blooming from April until summer. The flowers may be solitary or clustered. Most species have blue-green leaves, and the climbing species have tendrils that allow them to attach to a supporting wall or trellis. The genus name Lathyrus is from the Greek word lathyros, meaning pea or pulse.

Plant in the full sun and organically rich, well-drained soil. Depending on the species, they may be hardy in zones 2-11. Provide a trellis for support for any climbing species. Deadhead spent flowers to encourage re-blooming. Annuals are propagated by seeds sown in mid-spring, and perennials may be propagated by seeds or division.

Some species are grown for food and are often used for animal fodder. Other species are used as ornamental garden plants. Plants of the Lathyrus genus are grown worldwide. There are about 60 species found in the United States. Some species are native to the Southeastern United States; others found here are naturalized exotics.

Plants of this genus work well in a cottage garden or sprawling down a slope to help stop erosion. The variety of flower colors is striking in a cottage garden and also makes an attractive floral arrangement.

Insects, Diseases, and Other Plant Problems:  No serious problems. Aphids, mites, and pea moths are occasional insect pests.  Slugs and snails may chew on new plants. Diseases such as black root rot, leaf spot, powdery mildew, gray mold, and rust diseases occasionally occur.

The seeds of some Lathyrus species are toxic if ingested. If ingested in large quantities, it can cause weakness, fatigue, and paralysis of the legs, known as lathyrism. This is a permanent condition. These cases are usually found in Bangladesh, Chile, China, Ethiopia, India, and Nepal.