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Description
Lathyrus Pratensis, commonly known as the Meadow Vetchling, is a herbaceous plant that belongs to the pea family Fabaceae. It can be found in meadows, fields, and grasslands throughout Europe and Asia. The plant grows up to 50 cm in height and produces beautiful yellow flowers that bloom from May to August.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Fabales |
| Family | Fabaceae |
| Genus | Lathyrus |
Appearance
The Meadow Vetchling has an erect stem that is covered with fine hairs. The leaves are alternate, pinnate, and have two to four pairs of leaflets. The flowers are large and yellow, measuring up to 2 cm in diameter. They grow in clusters of two to six and have a sweet fragrance. The plant produces a small pod that contains several seeds.
Care Guide
The Meadow Vetchling is a hardy plant that can grow in a variety of conditions. It prefers well-drained soil and full sun but can tolerate partial shade. The plant needs to be watered regularly, especially during dry periods. Fertilization is not necessary, but adding compost to the soil can help improve its quality. The plant is hardy to USDA zones 3 to 9.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Meadow Vetchling is generally not affected by pests and diseases. However, it can be susceptible to powdery mildew and root rot if grown in poorly draining soil. To prevent these problems, make sure the plant is grown in well-drained soil and avoid overwatering.
Habitat
The Meadow Vetchling can be found in meadows, fields, and grasslands throughout Europe and Asia. It prefers open areas with well-drained soil and full sun. The plant is often used as a forage crop for livestock and can help improve the soil quality in areas where it grows.
Question and Answer
Q: Is the Meadow Vetchling a perennial or an annual plant?
A: The Meadow Vetchling is a perennial plant.
Q: Can the Meadow Vetchling be grown in containers?
A: Yes, the plant can be grown in containers as long as it has enough room to grow and is provided with well-draining soil and regular watering.
Q: Is the Meadow Vetchling toxic to animals?
A: No, the plant is not toxic to animals and is often used as a forage crop for livestock.
Q: How can I propagate the Meadow Vetchling?
A: The plant can be propagated by seed or division. Seeds can be sown in the spring or fall, while division can be done in the spring or fall.
Related Plants
- Lathyrus tuberosus
- Lathyrus odoratus
- Lathyrus niger
- Lathyrus sylvestris
References
- “Lathyrus Pratensis – Plant Finder.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=282518. Accessed 25 June 2021.
- “Lathyrus Pratensis.” Wikipedia, Wikimedia Foundation, 1 June 2021, en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lathyrus_pratensis. Accessed 25 June 2021.
