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Description
Lathyrus Clymenum, commonly known as the Greek vetch, is a species of flowering plant in the pea family Fabaceae. Native to Greece and Turkey, this herbaceous perennial grows up to 80 cm tall and features clusters of pink to purple flowers that bloom from late spring to early summer. The plant has a long history of medicinal and culinary uses, with extracts from its roots and leaves being used to treat a variety of ailments, and its seeds being consumed as a food source.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain: | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom: | Plantae |
| Phylum: | Spermatophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Fabales |
| Family: | Fabaceae |
| Genus: | Lathyrus |
| Species: | Lathyrus Clymenum |
Appearance
Lathyrus Clymenum is a herbaceous perennial that grows up to 80 cm tall. It features slender stems that are slightly hairy and bear compound leaves with two to three pairs of leaflets. The leaflets are oval to lance-shaped and have a bluish-green hue. From late spring to early summer, the plant produces clusters of pink to purple flowers that are about 2 cm long and have a sweet fragrance. The flowers give way to elongated seed pods that contain several small seeds.
Care Guide
Lathyrus Clymenum is a relatively easy plant to care for. Here are some tips on how to keep it healthy and thriving:Water: Water the plant deeply and regularly, especially during the growing season. Avoid overwatering, as this can cause root rot.Fertilization: Apply a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season to promote healthy growth and flowering.Soil: Plant Lathyrus Clymenum in well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. The plant prefers a slightly acidic to neutral pH.Sunlight: Lathyrus Clymenum thrives in full sun to partial shade. Provide it with at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day.Hardiness Zones: This plant is hardy to USDA zones 7 to 9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Lathyrus Clymenum is generally pest-free, but it is susceptible to a few common diseases, including powdery mildew, rust, and root rot. To prevent these problems, avoid overwatering and provide good air circulation around the plant. If you notice signs of disease, treat the plant with a fungicide according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
Habitat
Lathyrus Clymenum is native to Greece and Turkey, where it grows in a variety of habitats, including rocky hillsides, meadows, and forest edges. The plant prefers well-drained soils and full sun to partial shade.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Lathyrus Clymenum toxic?
A: Yes, the plant contains toxic compounds that can cause paralysis and other health problems in cattle and other grazing animals.Q: How do I propagate Lathyrus Clymenum?
A: The plant can be propagated by seed or by division. Sow the seeds in the fall or spring, or divide the plant in the spring or fall.Q: Can Lathyrus Clymenum be grown in containers?
A: Yes, the plant can be grown in containers as long as the container is large enough to accommodate its root system.Q: How often should I prune Lathyrus Clymenum?
A: Prune the plant back to its base after it has finished flowering to promote bushier growth and prevent it from becoming too leggy.
Related Plants
Here are some plants that are closely related to Lathyrus Clymenum:- Lathyrus odoratus (Sweet pea)- Lathyrus latifolius (Everlasting pea)- Lathyrus vernus (Spring vetchling)
References
– “Lathyrus clymenum” Plant Finder. Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed 15 December 2021.- “Lathyrus clymenum” Royal Horticultural Society. Accessed 15 December 2021.- “Lathyrus clymenum” Plants for a Future. Accessed 15 December 2021.
