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Description
Lathyrus Palustris, commonly known as marsh pea or swamp pea, is a beautiful flowering plant that belongs to the family Fabaceae. It is native to Europe, Asia, and North America and thrives in wetlands, moist meadows, and damp soils. This perennial plant grows up to 3 feet tall and blooms from May to July, producing clusters of pink, purple, or white flowers that are highly fragrant and attractive to bees and butterflies. The plant is also known for its edible seeds, which have been used as a source of food in some cultures.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Angiospermae |
| Order | Fabales |
| Family | Fabaceae |
| Genus | Lathyrus |
| Species | Lathyrus palustris |
Appearance
Lathyrus Palustris has a slender stem that can grow up to 3 feet tall and is covered with fine hairs. The leaves are alternate and composed of two to four pairs of leaflets that are ovate, dark green, and slightly hairy. The flowers are arranged in clusters of 3 to 10 and are pink, purple, or white in color. They have five petals and a prominent keel that encloses the reproductive organs. The plant produces long, narrow seed pods that contain several seeds.
Care Guide
Lathyrus Palustris is a hardy plant that requires minimal care. Here are some tips to help you keep your plant healthy:
- Water: The plant prefers moist soil and can tolerate occasional flooding. Water regularly to keep the soil evenly moist.
- Fertilization: The plant does not require fertilization but can benefit from a general-purpose fertilizer once a year.
- Soil: The plant prefers well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. It can tolerate slightly acidic to neutral soil pH.
- Sunlight: The plant prefers partial shade to full sun. It can tolerate full shade but may produce fewer flowers.
- Hardiness Zones: The plant is hardy in USDA zones 3 to 8.
Common Pests & Diseases
Lathyrus Palustris is relatively resistant to pests and diseases. However, it may be susceptible to the following:
- Aphids: These small insects can cause damage to the plant by sucking the sap from the leaves and stems. Use insecticidal soap or neem oil to control infestations.
- Mildew: This fungal disease can cause a white powdery coating on the leaves and stems. Remove infected plant parts and use a fungicide to prevent spread.
- Root rot: This disease is caused by overwatering or poorly drained soil. Improve soil drainage and reduce watering to prevent root rot.
Habitat
Lathyrus Palustris is native to wetlands, moist meadows, and damp soils in Europe, Asia, and North America. It grows best in areas with full to partial sun and moist, well-drained soil. The plant is commonly found near streams, ponds, and other bodies of water.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Lathyrus Palustris a good choice for a wetland garden?
A: Yes, Lathyrus Palustris is an excellent choice for a wetland garden. It thrives in moist soil and can tolerate occasional flooding.
Q: Can I grow Lathyrus Palustris in a container?
A: Yes, you can grow Lathyrus Palustris in a container as long as the container has good drainage and the soil is kept evenly moist.
Q: How often should I fertilize Lathyrus Palustris?
A: Lathyrus Palustris does not require frequent fertilization. Apply a general-purpose fertilizer once a year in the spring.
Q: Is Lathyrus Palustris toxic to pets?
A: Lathyrus Palustris is not known to be toxic to pets. However, the seeds may cause gastrointestinal upset if ingested in large quantities.
Related Plants
- Lathyrus odoratus (Sweet pea)
- Lathyrus vernus (Spring vetchling)
- Lathyrus japonicus (Beach pea)
References
- “Lathyrus palustris,” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=287311.
- “Lathyrus palustris,” Royal Horticultural Society, www.rhs.org.uk/plants/10430/lathyrus-palustris/details.
- “Marsh Pea,” Plants For A Future, www.pfaf.org/user/Plant.aspx?LatinName=Lathyrus+palustris.
