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Description
Lathyrus Nevadensis, also known as Sierra Pea or Panamint False Lupine, is a perennial herb that belongs to the Fabaceae family of flowering plants. It is native to the western United States, specifically the Sierra Nevada range and the Mojave Desert. The plant typically grows in clusters and can reach up to 4 feet in height. It produces a dense cluster of bright purple flowers that bloom from May to July.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Fabales |
| Family | Fabaceae |
| Genus | Lathyrus |
| Species | Nevadensis |
Appearance
Lathyrus Nevadensis has a sturdy stem that is covered in small hairs. The leaves are compound, with 4-10 pairs of leaflets that are oblong in shape and up to 2 inches long. The plant produces a dense cluster of bright purple flowers that are about 1 inch long and have a distinctive keel. The flowers are followed by seed pods that are about 2 inches long and contain several small, black seeds.
Care Guide
To care for Lathyrus Nevadensis, it is important to provide it with well-draining soil and full sun exposure. The plant prefers moderate watering, so be sure to water it deeply once a week during the growing season. Fertilize the plant in the spring with a balanced fertilizer. Lathyrus Nevadensis is hardy in USDA zones 6-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Lathyrus Nevadensis is generally a healthy plant and is not often affected by pests or diseases. However, it can be susceptible to root rot if the soil is too wet. To prevent this, make sure to plant it in well-draining soil and avoid overwatering.
Habitat
Lathyrus Nevadensis is native to the western United States and can be found growing in a variety of habitats, including meadows, rocky slopes, and open woodlands. It is most commonly found in the Sierra Nevada range and the Mojave Desert.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Lathyrus Nevadensis be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Lathyrus Nevadensis can be grown in containers as long as the container is large enough to accommodate the plant’s root system.
Q: Does Lathyrus Nevadensis attract pollinators?
A: Yes, Lathyrus Nevadensis is a great plant for attracting pollinators such as bees and butterflies.
Q: Can Lathyrus Nevadensis be propagated by cuttings?
A: No, Lathyrus Nevadensis cannot be propagated by cuttings. It is best propagated by seed.
Q: Is Lathyrus Nevadensis toxic?
A: Yes, Lathyrus Nevadensis is toxic if ingested. It contains a compound called beta-aminopropionitrile that can cause a neurological disorder in livestock if consumed in large quantities.
Related Plants
- Lathyrus latifolius
- Lathyrus odoratus
- Lathyrus japonicus
- Lathyrus venosus
References
- https://www.fs.fed.us/wildflowers/plant-of-the-week/lathyrus_nevadensis.shtml
- https://www.wildflower.org/plants/result.php?id_plant=LANE5
- https://www.nps.gov/plants/pubs/1457.htm
