Tangier Pea

lathyrus tingitanus

Also known as: ["Tangier Vetchling","Moorish Vetchling"]

Family: Fabaceae Genus: Lathyrus Category: Flowers

Overview

A climbing or trailing legume native to North Africa and the Iberian Peninsula, known for its delicate pinkish-purple flowers and pinnate leaves.

Benefits & Perks

["fragrant flowers","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","drought tolerant"]

Botanical Classification

Phylum: Magnoliophyta
Class: Magnoliopsida
Order: Fabales
Family: Fabaceae
Genus: Lathyrus
Botanical Name: Lathyrus tingitanus

Plant Characteristics

Basic Information
  • Category: Flowers
  • Suitable Location: garden bed or container in a sunny spot
  • Suitable For:
    Beginners Outdoor Landscapers Wildlife Supporters
  • Is Weed: No
  • Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
  • Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–30°C"}
  • Hardiness: {"zones":"8–10"}
  • Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
  • Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
  • Soil Type: Well-draining loamy soil with added organic matter.
Maintenance Level
  • Maintenance Level: moderate
  • Toughness Level: moderate
  • Pruning Frequency: Annually after flowering; light pruning as needed.
  • Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of growth if overgrown.
Care Details

Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours/day); tolerates partial shade but blooms best in direct light.

Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually if moving from shade to sun; protect from intense midday sun in hot climates; ensure good air circulation to prevent mildew.

Warning Signs: Yellowing leaves with brown tips indicate overwatering; stunted growth suggests poor soil fertility or drainage.

Care Requirements

Care Difficulty
easy

moderate

Sunlight

full sun to partial shade

Rotate plant for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter harsh sun; place near south-facing window for optimal light.

Watering

every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter

Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure soil dries slightly between waterings; avoid overhead watering to prevent fungal issues.

Soil

well-draining, loamy soil with added organic matter

pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (6.0–7.0).

Use raised beds for better drainage; avoid heavy clay soils; topdress with compost annually.

Temperature

Prefers 60–75°F (15–24°C); can tolerate cooler temperatures but avoid frost.

Avoid sudden temperature changes; keep away from heating/cooling vents; monitor nighttime lows.

Fertilizing

every 4–6 weeks during growing season

Apply fertilizer after watering; stop feeding when plant is dormant; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup.

Propagation

Methods

Stem cuttings or seed sowing.

Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
  1. Take 4–6 inch cuttings.
  2. Remove lower leaves.
  3. Dip in hormone.
  4. Plant in medium.
  5. Keep moist and warm.

Best Time: Spring or early summer when plant is actively growing.

Environment

High humidity (70–80%), warm (65–75°F), indirect light.

Medium

Well-draining potting mix with perlite or sand.

Hormone

Optional but recommended for faster rooting.

Timeline

Roots in 2–4 weeks; establish in 8–12 weeks.

Tools Needed

Pruners, rooting hormone, small pots, misting spray bottle.

Quick Tips

Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain consistent moisture; provide bottom heat for faster rooting.

Pruning & Repotting

Pruning Guide
Method

Pinch back tips for bushiness; cut back stems to healthy buds.

Pruning Plan

Remove dead or weak growth; shape plant to encourage bushiness; prune after flowering to promote rebloom.

Tools

Pruning shears, clean knife.

Checklist

Sterilize tools; prune dead/damaged growth; shape plant; clean up debris.

Repotting Guide
Best Season

Early spring before new growth begins.

Pot Size

One size larger pot; ensure drainage holes.

Method

Remove plant gently; trim roots if needed; repot in fresh soil with good drainage; water lightly.

Suggestions

Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for growth and flowering.

Checklist

Check root bound status; prepare new pot; use fresh soil; water after repotting.

Advanced Care Tips

Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist

Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; avoid wetting foliage.

How to Apply Water Properly

Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone; water until it drains from the bottom but avoid waterlogging; water in the morning to allow foliage to dry.

Pro Tip: Use a watering can with a narrow spout to direct water to the roots without disturbing the soil surface.
Watering Schedule Tips

Water deeply once the top inch of soil feels dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.

Soil Improvement

Add perlite or sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure good aeration.

Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues

Yellowing leaves (cold stress); wilting or leaf drop (heat stress).

Cold Stress

Slows growth; may cause leaf discoloration or dieback in prolonged cold.

Solution: Move to a warmer location; provide frost protection if outdoors; avoid cold drafts.

Hot Stress

Leaves may scorch or wilt; flowering may be reduced.

Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase watering; use mulch to retain soil moisture.

Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist

Check fertilizer type; dilute correctly; apply during active growth; avoid winter feeding.

Fertilizing Method

Use balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season; avoid fertilizing in winter.

Common Problems & Solutions

Yellowing leaves in Lathyrus tingitanus may indicate nutrient deficiencies, overwatering, or pest infestations such as aphids or spider mites, which disrupt chlorophyll production.

Wilting in Lathyrus tingitanus can be caused by water stress, either due to drought or overwatering, leading to root damage and impaired water uptake.

Leaf spots on Lathyrus tingitanus may be caused by fungal or bacterial pathogens, resulting in reduced photosynthesis and potential defoliation if left untreated.

Rotting, particularly root or stem rot, in Lathyrus tingitanus is often associated with excessive moisture and poor drainage, leading to decay and potential plant death.

Toxicity Warning

Cats
Slightly Toxic

Cats are susceptible to the toxic amino acids in Lathyrus tingitanus, which can cause gastrointestinal distress and mild neurological effects. Chronic ingestion may lead to more severe neurological complications.

⚠️ Symptoms:
vomiting diarrhea lethargy muscle tremors
🌿 Toxic Parts:
seeds young pods
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Prevent cats from accessing seeds and pods. Seek veterinary care if ingestion is suspected.
Dogs
Slightly Toxic

In dogs, ingestion of Lathyrus tingitanus seeds or young pods can lead to gastrointestinal upset and mild neurological symptoms due to the presence of toxic amino acids. While rare, chronic exposure may contribute to neurolathyrism-like conditions.

⚠️ Symptoms:
vomiting diarrhea lethargy weakness
🌿 Toxic Parts:
seeds young pods
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Keep seeds and pods out of reach of dogs. If ingestion occurs, consult a veterinarian promptly.
Humans
Slightly Toxic

Lathyrus tingitanus contains toxic amino acids that can cause neurolathyrism, a condition characterized by progressive paralysis and muscle weakness. The toxins interfere with neural function and can lead to long-term neurological damage if consumed regularly over time.

⚠️ Symptoms:
paralysis muscle weakness numbness difficulty walking
🌿 Toxic Parts:
seeds young pods
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Avoid regular consumption of seeds and young pods. Ensure thorough cooking if used in food preparation, though complete detoxification is not guaranteed.
Important: Keep this plant out of reach of children and pets. If ingestion occurs, contact poison control or veterinary services immediately.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Is Lathyrus tingitanus toxic to pets?

A: It is mildly toxic to dogs and cats if ingested.

Q: Does this plant attract wildlife?

A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and birds due to its fragrant flowers.

Q: How much maintenance does it require?

A: It has moderate maintenance needs, requiring occasional pruning and watering.

Quick Reference
Family: Fabaceae
Care: easy
Light: full sun to partial shade
Water: every 7–10 days during activ
Suitable For: ["beginners","outdoor landscapers","wildlife supporters (attracts bees, butterflies, birds)"]
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