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Description
Vicia Ludoviciana, commonly known as Louisiana vetch or Louisiana wild vetch, is a herbaceous perennial plant that is native to North America. It is a member of the pea family and is known for its ability to fix nitrogen in the soil. The plant can grow up to 3 feet tall and produces clusters of small, purple flowers in the spring and summer.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Fabales |
| Family | Fabaceae |
| Genus | Vicia |
Appearance
The leaves of Vicia Ludoviciana are pinnately compound, meaning they have multiple leaflets arranged on either side of a central stem. The leaflets are oval-shaped and can grow up to 2 inches long. The stems of the plant are thin and twining, allowing the plant to climb and tangle among other plants. The flowers are small and purple, with five petals and a distinctive keel. The fruit of the plant is a pod that contains several seeds.
Care Guide
Vicia Ludoviciana is a hardy plant that can tolerate a wide range of conditions. It prefers moist, well-draining soil and full sun exposure, but can also grow in partial shade. The plant does not require frequent watering, but will benefit from regular fertilization with a balanced fertilizer. It is also important to prune the plant regularly to encourage new growth and prevent it from becoming too tangled. Vicia Ludoviciana is hardy in USDA zones 4-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Vicia Ludoviciana is generally resistant to pests and diseases, but can occasionally be affected by powdery mildew or aphids. Powdery mildew can be treated with a fungicide, while aphids can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Habitat
Vicia Ludoviciana is native to North America and can be found in a variety of habitats, including prairies, meadows, and open woods. It is commonly used in ecological restoration projects to help improve soil quality and prevent erosion.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Vicia Ludoviciana toxic to animals?
A: No, Vicia Ludoviciana is not toxic to animals and is actually used as a forage crop for livestock.
Q: Can Vicia Ludoviciana be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Vicia Ludoviciana can be grown in containers as long as they are large enough to accommodate the plant’s twining stems.
Q: How often should Vicia Ludoviciana be fertilized?
A: Vicia Ludoviciana should be fertilized once a month with a balanced fertilizer during the growing season.
Q: How can I propagate Vicia Ludoviciana?
A: Vicia Ludoviciana can be propagated by seed or by dividing established plants in the spring or fall.
Related Plants
- Vicia americana
- Vicia cracca
- Vicia villosa
References
- USDA Plants Database. (n.d.). Vicia ludoviciana Nutt. Retrieved from https://plants.usda.gov/core/profile?symbol=VILU
- Illinois Wildflowers. (n.d.). Vicia ludoviciana. Retrieved from https://www.illinoiswildflowers.info/prairie/plantx/lv_vetchx.htm
- Missouri Botanical Garden. (n.d.). Vicia ludoviciana. Retrieved from https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=287516&isprofile=0&basic=louisiana%20vetch
