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Description
Lathyrus Odoratus Midnight, commonly known as Sweet Pea, is a flowering plant that belongs to the legume family Fabaceae. It is an annual plant that is native to Sicily, Cyprus, and the Aegean Islands. This plant is a popular garden plant due to its fragrance, beauty, and easy cultivation. It produces dark purple, almost black flowers with a strong fragrance that blooms from late spring to early summer. The plant can grow up to six feet tall and requires support for climbing.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Fabales |
| Family | Leguminosae |
| Genus | Lathyrus |
Appearance
Lathyrus Odoratus Midnight has a vine-like habit and produces tendrils that help it climb. Its leaves are compound, consisting of two leaflets and a branched tendril. The flowers are dark purple, almost black, with a strong, sweet fragrance. The plant can grow up to six feet tall, and the flowers bloom from late spring to early summer. The seeds of Sweet Pea are round and black, and the pods are long and narrow.
Care Guide
Lathyrus Odoratus Midnight is relatively easy to grow and care for. Here are some tips for growing this plant:
- Water: Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. Water the plant deeply once a week.
- Fertilization: Fertilize the plant with a balanced fertilizer every two weeks during the growing season.
- Soil: Plant Lathyrus Odoratus Midnight in well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.
- Sunlight: Place the plant in full sun to part shade.
- Hardiness Zones: Lathyrus Odoratus Midnight is hardy in USDA zones 3-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Lathyrus Odoratus Midnight is relatively pest and disease-resistant. However, here are some common problems that you may encounter:
- Aphids: These small, soft-bodied insects suck the sap from the plant, causing stunted growth and deformities. Use insecticidal soap to control aphids.
- Spider Mites: These pests are tiny and difficult to see. They feed on the plant’s sap, causing yellowing and browning of the leaves. Use insecticidal soap or neem oil to control spider mites.
- Mildew: This fungal disease causes a white, powdery coating on the leaves. It can be controlled with a fungicide spray.
Habitat
Lathyrus Odoratus Midnight is native to Sicily, Cyprus, and the Aegean Islands. It is a popular garden plant and can be grown in a variety of locations, including containers, beds, and borders.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Lathyrus Odoratus Midnight be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Lathyrus Odoratus Midnight can be grown in containers as long as the container is large enough to accommodate the plant’s size and growth habit.
Q: How often should I fertilize Lathyrus Odoratus Midnight?
A: Fertilize the plant every two weeks during the growing season.
Q: Is Lathyrus Odoratus Midnight hardy?
A: Yes, Lathyrus Odoratus Midnight is hardy in USDA zones 3-11.
Q: Can Lathyrus Odoratus Midnight be grown from seed?
A: Yes, Lathyrus Odoratus Midnight can be grown from seed. Sow the seeds in the spring after the danger of frost has passed.
Related Plants
- Lathyrus odoratus ‘Cupani’
- Lathyrus odoratus ‘Queen of the Night’
- Lathyrus odoratus ‘Matucana’
- Lathyrus odoratus ‘Streamers’
References
- https://www.gardenia.net/plant-variety/lathyrus-odoratus-midnight
- https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/vines/sweet-pea/growing-sweet-pea-vines.htm
- https://www.rhs.org.uk/plants/19992/lathyrus-odoratus-midnight/details
- https://www.gardeningchannel.com/sweet-pea-plant-profile-care-growing-information/
