Black Pea
lathyrus niger
Also known as: ["Black Vetchling","Black Pea Vetchling"]
Overview
A perennial climbing plant native to Europe, known for its dark purple-black flowers and toxic seeds.
Benefits & Perks
["wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","aesthetic foliage"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Fabales |
| Family: | Fabaceae |
| Genus: | Lathyrus |
| Botanical Name: | Lathyrus niger |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: garden border or trellis support in partial shade
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–25°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"4–8"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Moderate to fast-draining; avoid waterlogged conditions.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, loamy soil with added organic matter; can tolerate slightly sandy or clay soils if amended.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Annually after flowering or every 2–3 years to rejuvenate growth.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of old growth to stimulate new shoots.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 4–6 hours daily; tolerates partial shade, especially in hot climates; adjust exposure based on season.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to direct sun to avoid scorching; provide dappled shade during peak summer hours; for indoor plants, place near an east or west-facing window.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
partial shade to full sun
Rotate plant weekly for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter intense light; avoid direct afternoon sun.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water deeply to encourage root growth; avoid waterlogging; adjust frequency based on season and weather.
Soil
well-drained, fertile loam with some organic matter
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure soil is loose and airy; avoid compacted soil; test pH if issues arise.
Temperature
Prefers cool to moderate temperatures (60–75°F or 15–24°C); can tolerate cooler nights; avoid extreme heat or cold drafts.
Avoid sudden temperature fluctuations; protect from frost; maintain consistent moderate temperatures for best growth.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer
Apply fertilizer after watering to prevent root burn; stop feeding in late summer to prepare for dormancy; use a low-nitrogen formula for flowering plants.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or division; stem cuttings are more common for home growers.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a 4–6 inch cutting with at least two nodes.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Keep moist and warm.
Best Time: Early spring or late summer when the plant is actively growing but not stressed.
Environment
Warm, humid environment with indirect light; maintain consistent moisture.
Medium
Well-draining potting mix with perlite or sand; can also root in water initially.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is recommended to improve success rates.
Timeline
Roots may develop in 3–6 weeks; establish in new pot after 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, well-draining medium.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain high humidity with a plastic bag or dome; avoid direct sun during rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Selective thinning of overcrowded stems; cut back to a healthy bud or lateral branch.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushier growth, and remove dead or weak stems; focus on post-flowering or early spring for best results.
Tools
Clean, sharp pruning shears or scissors.
Checklist
Disinfect tools; prune at the right time; make clean cuts; remove dead or diseased growth.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before new growth begins.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 1–2 inches in diameter; avoid oversized pots.
Method
Gently remove plant; trim any circling roots; place in a slightly larger pot with fresh, well-draining soil; water thoroughly after repotting.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for rejuvenation and fresh soil.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot size; prepare new soil mix; handle roots carefully; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring even moisture reaches the root zone; water early in the day to minimize evaporation and fungal growth; ensure excess water drains away to prevent root rot.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water moderately during active growth (spring-summer), allowing soil to dry slightly between waterings; reduce frequency in fall-winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add compost or well-rotted manure for fertility; mix in perlite or sand for drainage; ensure organic matter is well-decomposed.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, yellowing leaves, stunted growth, or bud drop in response to extreme temperatures or sudden changes.
Cold Stress
Low temperatures can slow growth or cause leaf damage; prolonged cold may lead to dormancy or death if not hardy to the region.
Solution: Protect from frost with mulch or move to a sheltered location; avoid placing near cold drafts or windows in winter.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can cause wilting, leaf scorch, or reduced flowering; may go dormant in extreme heat.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity with misting or a pebble tray; ensure adequate watering.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check fertilizer type; dilute correctly; apply during growing season; avoid over-fertilization.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during active growth (spring-summer); avoid fertilizing in fall-winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
ToxicCats are susceptible to the toxic effects of Lathyrus niger, particularly the seeds and roots, which contain compounds that can cause neurological and gastrointestinal distress. The toxins can lead to severe health complications if ingested.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
ToxicIn dogs, ingestion of Lathyrus niger can lead to gastrointestinal upset and neurological symptoms due to the presence of toxic amino acids. These compounds can disrupt normal neural function and cause significant health issues.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
ToxicLathyrus niger contains toxic amino acids that can cause neurolathyrism, a condition characterized by progressive paralysis and muscle wasting. The toxins interfere with neural function and can lead to severe neurological damage with prolonged or high-dose exposure.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Lathyrus niger toxic to pets?
A: Yes, it is toxic to dogs and cats.
Q: Does Lathyrus niger attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and birds.
Q: How difficult is it to care for Lathyrus niger?
A: It requires moderate care and maintenance.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Fabaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | partial shade to full sun |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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