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Description
Lathyrus Pallescens, commonly known as the Pale Sweet Pea, is a flowering plant species that belongs to the Fabaceae family. It is native to the Pacific Northwest region of North America and can be found in moist meadows, open woods, and along streambanks. The plant blooms from May to August and produces small, pinkish-purple flowers that are about 1 cm long. The plant is an herbaceous perennial that can grow up to 50 cm tall and spreads by rhizomes.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Fabales |
| Family | Fabaceae |
| Genus | Lathyrus |
Appearance
The Lathyrus Pallescens plant has green, pinnate leaves that are divided into 4-6 pairs of leaflets. The stem is thin and slightly hairy. The flowers are small and pinkish-purple in color, with a white center. The plant produces small, pod-like fruits that contain the seeds. The overall appearance of the plant is delicate and attractive, making it a popular choice for gardens and landscaping.
Care Guide
To care for Lathyrus Pallescens, it is important to provide it with adequate water, fertilizer, soil, sunlight, and hardiness zones:
- Water: The plant should be watered regularly, about once a week, during the growing season. It prefers moist soil but can tolerate some dryness.
- Fertilization: The plant should be fertilized once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.
- Soil: The plant prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. It can tolerate a range of soil types, including sandy and clay soils.
- Sunlight: The plant prefers full sun to partial shade. It can tolerate some shade but may not flower as well.
- Hardiness Zones: The plant is hardy in USDA zones 5-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Lathyrus Pallescens plant is relatively pest and disease resistant. However, it may be susceptible to aphids, spider mites, and powdery mildew. To prevent these problems, it is recommended to keep the plant well-ventilated and to avoid overwatering. If necessary, insecticidal soap or horticultural oil can be used to control pests, and fungicides can be used to control powdery mildew.
Habitat
Lathyrus Pallescens is native to the Pacific Northwest region of North America, including Alaska, British Columbia, Washington, Oregon, and California. It can be found in moist meadows, open woods, and along streambanks. The plant thrives in cool, moist environments and can tolerate some shade.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Lathyrus Pallescens be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Lathyrus Pallescens can be grown in containers as long as the container is large enough to accommodate the plant’s root system and provides adequate drainage.
Q: How often should Lathyrus Pallescens be fertilized?
A: Lathyrus Pallescens should be fertilized once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.
Q: What is the best time to plant Lathyrus Pallescens?
A: Lathyrus Pallescens should be planted in the spring or fall when the soil is moist and cool.
Q: How often should Lathyrus Pallescens be watered?
A: Lathyrus Pallescens should be watered regularly, about once a week, during the growing season.
Related Plants
- Lathyrus Odoratus (Sweet Pea)
- Lathyrus Latifolius (Perennial Sweet Pea)
- Lathyrus Tuberosus (Tuberous Pea)
References
- USDA Plants Database: Lathyrus pallescens
- Gardening Know How: Pale Sweet Pea Care: How To Grow Pale Sweet Pea Plants
- Northwest Native Plant Guide: Lathyrus pallescens
