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Description
Lathyrus Polyphyllus, also known as perennial sweet pea, is a herbaceous flowering plant that belongs to the pea family. This plant species is native to Europe and Asia, but has also been introduced to North America. It is a perennial plant that can grow up to 6 feet tall and 3 feet wide. This plant is known for its beautiful, fragrant flowers that come in shades of pink, white, and purple. The flowers bloom from late spring to mid-summer and attract a variety of pollinators. The foliage of this plant is also attractive and consists of compound leaves with 4-8 pairs of leaflets.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Kingdom | Phylum | Class | Order | Family | Genus ||——–|———|——–|——-|——-|——–|——-|| Eukarya | Plantae | Spermatophyta | Magnoliopsida | Fabales | Fabaceae | Lathyrus |
Appearance
Lathyrus Polyphyllus is a beautiful plant with a variety of colors and forms. The flowers come in shades of pink, white, and purple, and are fragrant and showy. The foliage of this plant is also attractive and consists of compound leaves with 4-8 pairs of leaflets. The plant can grow up to 6 feet tall and 3 feet wide and has a sprawling habit. The flowers bloom from late spring to mid-summer and attract a variety of pollinators, including bees and butterflies.
Care Guide
Lathyrus Polyphyllus is a relatively easy plant to care for, and can thrive in a variety of conditions. Here are some tips for caring for this plant:- Water: This plant prefers well-draining soil that is moist but not waterlogged. Water the plant deeply once a week, or more often during hot, dry weather.- Fertilization: Apply a balanced fertilizer to the plant once a month during the growing season.- Soil: Lathyrus Polyphyllus prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. It can tolerate a range of soil types, but does best in slightly acidic to neutral soil.- Sunlight: This plant prefers full sun to partial shade. It can tolerate some shade, but will not bloom as well if it does not receive enough sunlight.- Hardiness Zones: Lathyrus Polyphyllus is hardy in USDA zones 4-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Lathyrus Polyphyllus is relatively pest and disease resistant, but it can be susceptible to a few common issues. Here are some pests and diseases to watch out for:- Aphids: These small, sap-sucking insects can be found on the leaves and stems of the plant. They can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil.- Powdery Mildew: This fungal disease can cause a white, powdery coating on the leaves of the plant. It can be controlled with a fungicide.- Slugs and Snails: These pests can eat holes in the leaves of the plant. They can be controlled with slug bait or by handpicking them off the plant.
Habitat
Lathyrus Polyphyllus is native to Europe and Asia, but has been introduced to North America. It can grow in a variety of habitats, including meadows, fields, and along roadsides. It prefers well-draining soil and full sun to partial shade.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Lathyrus Polyphyllus a good plant for attracting pollinators?
A: Yes, Lathyrus Polyphyllus is a great plant for attracting pollinators like bees and butterflies.
Q: How often should I water my Lathyrus Polyphyllus plant?
A: Water your Lathyrus Polyphyllus deeply once a week, or more often during hot, dry weather.
Q: Can Lathyrus Polyphyllus grow in shade?
A: Lathyrus Polyphyllus prefers full sun to partial shade. It can tolerate some shade, but will not bloom as well if it does not receive enough sunlight.
Q: What kind of soil does Lathyrus Polyphyllus prefer?
A: Lathyrus Polyphyllus prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. It can tolerate a range of soil types, but does best in slightly acidic to neutral soil.
Related Plants
– Lathyrus Odoratus (Sweet Pea)- Lathyrus Tuberosus (Tuberous Pea)- Lathyrus Latifolius (Everlasting Pea)
References
– “Lathyrus Polyphyllus.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=n900.- “Perennial Sweet Pea.” Royal Horticultural Society, www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/23259/Lathyrus-polyphyllus/Details.
