Round Pea

lathyrus sphaericus

Also known as: ["Round Pea Vetchling","Round-leaf Pea"]

Family: Fabaceae Genus: Lathyrus Category: Flowers

Overview

A small, annual legume with rounded leaves and small, pea-like flowers, native to parts of Europe and Asia.

Benefits & Perks

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

Botanical Classification

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

Plant Characteristics

Basic Information
  • Category: Flowers
  • Suitable Location: garden bed or container in a sunny spot
  • Suitable For:
    Beginners Busy People (low Maintenance) Wildlife Supporters
  • Is Weed: No
  • Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
  • Climate: {"temperatureRange":"10–30°C"}
  • Hardiness: {"zones":"8–11"}
  • 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: low
  • Toughness Level: moderate
  • Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically after flowering or in early spring.
  • Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of growth if necessary.
Care Details

Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun to partial shade (6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily); adjust for intense summer heat.

Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to direct sun; protect from harsh midday sun in summer; ensure good air circulation.

Warning Signs: Yellowing leaves, root rot, or stunted growth indicate poor soil conditions or improper watering.

Care Requirements

Care Difficulty
easy

moderate

Sunlight

full sun to partial shade

Rotate plant weekly for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter intense light indoors.

Watering

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

Water thoroughly but allow soil to dry between waterings; avoid overhead watering to prevent fungal issues.

Soil

well-draining, loamy soil with moderate organic content

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

Use a mix of potting soil and perlite; avoid heavy clay soils; ensure pots have drainage holes.

Temperature

Prefers moderate temperatures (60–75°F or 15–24°C); tolerates cooler nights but avoids frost.

Avoid sudden temperature changes; protect from frost; ensure good air circulation in heat.

Fertilizing

every 4–6 weeks during growing season

Apply fertilizer after watering to prevent root burn; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup.

Propagation

Methods

Stem cuttings or seed propagation.

Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
  1. Take a healthy cutting.
  2. Remove lower leaves.
  3. Dip in rooting hormone (optional).
  4. Plant in medium.
  5. Keep moist.

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

Environment

Warm, humid environment with indirect light; maintain consistent moisture.

Medium

Well-draining potting mix with perlite or sand.

Hormone

Optional, but rooting hormone can improve success rates.

Timeline

Roots may develop in 2–4 weeks; establish in new pot after 6–8 weeks.

Tools Needed

Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, well-draining medium.

Quick Tips

Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain humidity with a plastic cover; avoid direct sun.

Pruning & Repotting

Pruning Guide
Method

Pinch back tips for bushier growth; cut back leggy stems to encourage branching.

Pruning Plan

Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushier growth, and remove dead or diseased parts.

Tools

Clean, sharp pruning shears or scissors.

Checklist

Sterilize tools; prune during dormancy or after flowering; remove dead or crossing stems.

Repotting Guide
Best Season

Early spring before new growth begins.

Pot Size

Choose a pot one size larger (2–3 inches wider) than the current one.

Method

Remove plant gently; trim roots if crowded; place in new pot with fresh soil; water lightly.

Suggestions

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

Checklist

Use fresh potting mix; ensure good drainage; water after repotting; avoid fertilizing for a month.

Advanced Care Tips

Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist

Check soil moisture before watering; water early in the day; ensure proper drainage.

How to Apply Water Properly

Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone; allow excess water to drain away completely.

Pro Tip: Use a watering can with a narrow spout to direct water precisely to the roots.
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

Wilting, yellowing leaves, or stunted growth in extreme heat or cold.

Cold Stress

Slows growth and may cause leaf drop; prolonged cold can damage or kill the plant.

Solution: Move to a warmer location; provide frost protection in cold climates; avoid cold drafts.

Hot Stress

Leaves may scorch, wilt, or drop; flowering may be reduced in excessive heat.

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

Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist

Use diluted fertilizer; fertilize during active growth; stop in dormant periods.

Fertilizing Method

Use a 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 sphaericus may indicate nutrient deficiencies, overwatering, or pest infestations, affecting photosynthesis and overall plant health.

Wilting in Lathyrus sphaericus can be caused by water stress, root damage, or pathogen infection, leading to reduced turgor pressure and potential plant death if not addressed.

Leaf spots on Lathyrus sphaericus may be caused by fungal or bacterial pathogens, leading to reduced photosynthetic efficiency and potential defoliation.

Rotting, particularly root or stem rot, can occur in Lathyrus sphaericus due to excessive moisture or fungal infections, causing decay and eventual plant death.

Toxicity Warning

Cats
Slightly Toxic

Cats are susceptible to the toxic amino acids in Lathyrus sphaericus seeds, which can induce neurolathyrism and neurological deficits. Chronic ingestion poses a serious health risk.

⚠️ Symptoms:
weakness tremors difficulty walking seizures
🌿 Toxic Parts:
seeds
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Prevent cats from accessing the seeds of this plant. Seek veterinary care if ingestion is suspected.
Dogs
Slightly Toxic

The seeds of Lathyrus sphaericus can cause neurolathyrism in dogs, leading to neurological dysfunction. Chronic exposure may result in severe motor impairment.

⚠️ Symptoms:
limpness difficulty walking muscle spasms loss of coordination
🌿 Toxic Parts:
seeds
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Keep dogs away from the seeds of this plant. Consult a veterinarian if ingestion is suspected.
Humans
Slightly Toxic

Lathyrus sphaericus contains toxic amino acids that can cause neurolathyrism, a condition affecting the nervous system. Prolonged consumption of the seeds can lead to irreversible neurological damage.

⚠️ Symptoms:
weakness paralysis spasticity difficulty walking
🌿 Toxic Parts:
seeds
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Avoid consuming the seeds of Lathyrus sphaericus. If accidental ingestion occurs, seek medical attention immediately.
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 sphaericus 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.

Q: How easy is it to grow?

A: It is easy to grow and requires low maintenance.

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