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Description
Vicia Gigantea, commonly known as Giant Vetch or Broad Bean Vetch, is a flowering plant belonging to the legume family Fabaceae. It is a perennial herbaceous plant that can grow up to 2 meters tall. This plant is native to Europe and Asia but is also grown in other parts of the world. The plant produces showy, purple or blue flowers that bloom in mid to late spring.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Fabales |
| Family | Leguminosae |
| Genus | Vicia |
Appearance
The leaves of Vicia Gigantea are pinnate and composed of 8-12 pairs of leaflets. The leaflets are ovate to oblong in shape and approximately 2-5 cm long. The plant has a thick stem that is hairy and green in color. The flowers are arranged in racemes and are about 1-2 cm long. They have a distinctive sweet pea-like fragrance that attracts bees and other pollinators.
Care Guide
Vicia Gigantea is a hardy plant that requires minimal care. Here are some tips to keep your plant healthy:
- Water: Water regularly during the growing season, but allow the soil to dry out between watering. Avoid overwatering as it can lead to root rot.
- Fertilization: Fertilize the plant with a balanced fertilizer in early spring and mid-summer.
- Soil: Plant Vicia Gigantea in well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.
- Sunlight: This plant prefers full sun to partial shade.
- Hardiness Zones: Vicia Gigantea can grow in USDA hardiness zones 4-8.
Common Pests & Diseases
While Vicia Gigantea is generally disease and pest-free, it can be susceptible to certain problems:
- Aphids: Aphids can infest the plant, causing distorted growth and yellowing leaves. Use insecticidal soap to control aphids.
- Root Rot: Overwatering can lead to root rot, which can cause the plant to wilt and die. Avoid overwatering and ensure that the soil is well-draining.
- Leaf Spots: Fungal diseases such as leaf spots can affect the plant, causing brown spots on the leaves. Remove infected leaves and treat the plant with a fungicide.
Habitat
Vicia Gigantea is commonly found in meadows, fields, and along roadsides. It prefers well-draining soil and can tolerate a range of soil types, including sandy and clay soils. This plant can grow in a variety of habitats, from sea level to high elevations.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Vicia Gigantea an edible plant?
A: While Vicia Gigantea is not commonly consumed, the seeds of some vetch species are used as a food crop.
Q: Can Vicia Gigantea be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Vicia Gigantea can be grown in containers. Ensure that the container has drainage holes and use well-draining soil.
Q: How often should I fertilize Vicia Gigantea?
A: Fertilize Vicia Gigantea with a balanced fertilizer in early spring and mid-summer.
Q: Does Vicia Gigantea require pruning?
A: Vicia Gigantea does not require pruning, but you can remove any dead or damaged foliage to promote healthy growth.
Related Plants
- Vicia Sativa
- Vicia Faba
- Vicia Cracca
- Vicia Sepium
References
- “Vicia gigantea.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed September 19, 2021. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=c280.
- “Vicia gigantea.” Plants for a Future. Accessed September 19, 2021. https://pfaf.org/user/Plant.aspx?LatinName=Vicia+gigantea.
- “Vicia gigantea.” Royal Horticultural Society. Accessed September 19, 2021. https://www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/350747/Vicia-gigantea/Details.
