Smooth Pea

lathyrus laevigatus

Also known as: ["Wood Vetchling","Smooth Vetchling"]

Family: Fabaceae Genus: Lathyrus Category: Flowers

Overview

A perennial climbing plant native to Europe, characterized by smooth stems and pinnate leaves with paired leaflets.

Benefits & Perks

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

Botanical Classification

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

Plant Characteristics

Basic Information
  • Category: Flowers
  • Suitable Location: garden border or trellis support in partial shade
  • Suitable For:
    Collectors & Enthusiasts Outdoor Landscapers Wildlife Supporters
  • Is Weed: No
  • Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
  • Climate: {"temperatureRange":"0–30°C"}
  • Hardiness: {"zones":"6–9"}
  • 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 in late winter or early spring; light pruning can be done after flowering.
  • Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of old growth to rejuvenate the plant.
Care Details

Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily; tolerates partial shade, especially in hot climates.

Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense sunlight; protect from harsh afternoon sun; adjust placement based on seasonal light changes.

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

Care Requirements

Care Difficulty
moderate

moderate

Sunlight

partial shade to full sun

Rotate plant for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter intense light; avoid direct sun in summer afternoons.

Watering

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

Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure proper drainage; avoid wetting foliage to prevent fungal issues.

Soil

well-draining, fertile loam with added organic matter

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 60–75°F (15–24°C); cooler temperatures in winter promote dormancy and flowering.

Protect from frost; ensure good air circulation; adjust watering with temperature changes.

Fertilizing

every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer

Apply fertilizer after watering; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; reduce feeding in dormancy.

Propagation

Methods

Stem cuttings or seed; stem cuttings are more reliable for home growers.

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

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; can also root in water initially.

Hormone

Rooting hormone is recommended to improve success rates.

Timeline

Roots typically form in 2–4 weeks; new growth may take 6–8 weeks.

Tools Needed

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

Quick Tips

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

Pruning & Repotting

Pruning Guide
Method

Cut stems just above a leaf node or bud; thin out crowded areas to improve air circulation.

Pruning Plan

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

Tools

Clean, sharp pruning shears or scissors.

Checklist

Sanitize tools; prune dead/damaged stems; shape the plant; clean up debris.

Repotting Guide
Best Season

Early spring before new growth begins.

Pot Size

Choose a pot one size larger with good drainage holes.

Method

Remove plant gently; trim roots if necessary; place in a 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

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

Advanced Care Tips

Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist

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

How to Apply Water Properly

Water at the base of the plant, focusing on the root zone; allow water to penetrate deeply; ensure excess water drains away to prevent waterlogging.

Pro Tip: Water early in the morning to minimize evaporation and reduce fungal risk.
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; leaf drop or failure to flower in cold stress.

Cold Stress

Slows growth, may cause leaf damage or dieback in temperatures below 50°F (10°C).

Solution: Move to a warmer location; provide a protective mulch layer; avoid overwatering in cold conditions.

Hot Stress

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

Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity; water more frequently but avoid waterlogging.

Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist

Check growth phase; dilute fertilizer; apply to moist soil; avoid contact with roots.

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

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

Leaf spots on Lathyrus laevigatus are often caused by fungal or bacterial pathogens, resulting in reduced photosynthetic efficiency and potential leaf drop.

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

Toxicity Warning

Cats
Slightly Toxic

Similar to dogs, cats may experience gastrointestinal distress if they consume the seeds or young pods of Lathyrus laevigatus. Neurological effects are unlikely but possible with large quantities.

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

if eaten

Prevent cats from accessing toxic parts. Seek veterinary care if ingestion occurs.
Dogs
Slightly Toxic

The seeds and young pods of Lathyrus laevigatus can cause mild to moderate gastrointestinal upset in dogs. While severe neurological effects are rare, ingestion may lead to discomfort.

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

if eaten

Keep pets away from seeds and young pods. Contact a veterinarian if ingestion is suspected.
Humans
Slightly Toxic

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

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

if eaten

Avoid consuming seeds and young pods. Use only mature, properly prepared parts under expert guidance.
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 laevigatus toxic to pets?

A: Yes, 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: What are the common problems with this plant?

A: Common issues include leaf spots and wilting.

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