Contents
Description
Lathyrus Annuus, commonly known as the annual sweet pea, is a flowering plant that belongs to the Fabaceae family. This plant is native to the Mediterranean region but is now widely cultivated around the world. The annual sweet pea is an herbaceous plant that grows up to 1 meter in height. It produces delicate, colorful flowers that bloom in the summer months. These flowers are highly fragrant and are a favorite of gardeners around the world.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Fabales |
| Family | Fabaceae |
| Genus | Lathyrus |
Appearance
The annual sweet pea has a slender stem that can grow up to 1 meter in height. The leaves are compound and consist of two oval-shaped leaflets. The flowers bloom in the summer months and are highly fragrant. They come in a variety of colors, including pink, purple, white, and red. The flowers are arranged in a cluster and have a distinctive shape, with a long spur at the back.
Care Guide
To care for Lathyrus Annuus, it is important to provide it with the right conditions. This plant requires regular watering and fertilization to grow properly. It also needs well-draining soil and plenty of sunlight. The annual sweet pea is hardy in USDA hardiness zones 7-10.
Water
The annual sweet pea requires regular watering to grow properly. It is important to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. Water the plant deeply once a week or more frequently during hot, dry weather.
Fertilization
To promote healthy growth, fertilize the plant regularly. Use a balanced fertilizer every two weeks during the growing season.
Soil
The annual sweet pea requires well-draining soil. Amend the soil with compost before planting to improve drainage and fertility.
Sunlight
Lathyrus Annuus requires plenty of sunlight to grow properly. Plant it in a location that receives full sun for at least six hours a day.
Hardiness Zones
The annual sweet pea is hardy in USDA hardiness zones 7-10.
Common Pests & Diseases
Lathyrus Annuus is susceptible to a range of pests and diseases. The most common pests that affect this plant are aphids and spider mites. These pests can be controlled with regular spraying of insecticidal soap. The annual sweet pea is also susceptible to fungal diseases such as powdery mildew and gray mold. These diseases can be prevented by ensuring proper air circulation around the plant and avoiding overhead watering.
Habitat
The annual sweet pea is native to the Mediterranean region but can now be found in gardens around the world. It grows best in warm, sunny locations with well-draining soil.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Lathyrus Annuus be grown in containers?
A: Yes, the annual sweet pea can be grown in containers. Use a well-draining potting mix and provide the plant with plenty of sunlight.
Q: How often should I fertilize Lathyrus Annuus?
A: Fertilize the annual sweet pea every two weeks during the growing season.
Q: How tall does Lathyrus Annuus grow?
A: The annual sweet pea can grow up to 1 meter in height.
Q: How often should I water Lathyrus Annuus?
A: Water the annual sweet pea deeply once a week or more frequently during hot, dry weather.
Related Plants
– Lathyrus odoratus (Sweet Pea)- Lathyrus sativus (Grass Pea)- Lathyrus japonicus (Beach Pea)
References
– “Lathyrus Annuus.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=a874. Accessed 27 May 2021.- “Lathyrus Annuus.” PlantFiles, davesgarden.com/guides/pf/go/54824/. Accessed 27 May 2021.- “Lathyrus Annuus.” Gardenia, gardenia.net/plant/lathyrus-annuus. Accessed 27 May 2021.
