Pyrenean Vetch
vicia pyrenaica
Also known as: ["Pyrenean Vetchling","Pyrenean Pea Vetch"]
Overview
A perennial legume native to the Pyrenees, characterized by its climbing habit and pea-like flowers.
Benefits & Perks
["wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","drought tolerant","aesthetic foliage"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Fabales |
| Family: | Fabaceae |
| Genus: | Vicia |
| Botanical Name: | Vicia pyrenaica |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: rock gardens, slopes, or borders in temperate regions
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"0–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"5–8"}
- 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. A mix of potting soil, perlite, and compost works well.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Annually after flowering or as needed to remove dead growth.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate pruning to shape the plant and remove up to one-third of old growth if necessary.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun to partial shade (4–6 hours of direct sunlight daily). Adjust to partial shade in hot climates to prevent scorching.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to intense sunlight. Protect from harsh afternoon sun, especially in arid regions. Indoors, place near a south-facing window with filtered light.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant for even light exposure; use sheer curtains to diffuse intense light; monitor for signs of sunburn.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water deeply but infrequently; ensure good drainage; adjust frequency based on season and growth stage.
Soil
well-drained, loamy soil with moderate organic content
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure pots have drainage holes; avoid compacted soil; test pH periodically.
Temperature
Prefers cool to moderate temperatures (60–75°F or 15–24°C). Tolerates mild frosts but avoid prolonged exposure to extreme cold or heat.
Avoid sudden temperature fluctuations; protect from drafts; maintain consistent ambient temperature.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer
Apply fertilizer after watering to prevent root burn; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; match fertilizer to plant's growth phase.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or seed propagation. Stem cuttings are more reliable for home growers.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Select healthy stem cuttings.
- Apply rooting hormone.
- Plant in moist medium.
- Maintain humidity.
- Transplant once rooted.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
High humidity (70–90%), warm temperatures (65–75°F or 18–24°C), and indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining potting mix with perlite or sand for cuttings; sterile seed starting mix for seeds.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is recommended for stem cuttings to improve success rates.
Timeline
Stem cuttings may root in 3–6 weeks; seeds may germinate in 2–4 weeks under optimal conditions.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, humidity dome, misting spray bottle.
Quick Tips
Use clean tools to prevent disease; maintain consistent moisture; provide gentle bottom heat for faster rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Use clean cuts just above a leaf node or bud. Remove crossing or crowded branches to improve air circulation.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushier growth, and remove dead or diseased parts. Focus on post-flowering pruning to avoid reducing blooms.
Tools
Pruning shears, sterilizing solution, gloves.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune during dormancy or after flowering; remove dead/diseased parts; shape evenly.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before new growth begins.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 1–2 inches in diameter to avoid overpotting.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if crowded; place in a slightly larger pot with fresh, well-draining soil; water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the container. Necessary if growth slows or drainage becomes poor.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot size; prepare fresh soil mix; handle roots carefully; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water early in the day; avoid overhead watering; ensure proper drainage.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, targeting the root zone. Apply until water drains from the bottom, ensuring even moisture without waterlogging. Water in the morning to allow foliage to dry.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water moderately during active growth in spring and summer, reducing frequency in fall and winter to prevent root rot. Allow soil to dry slightly between waterings.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; use mulch to retain moisture and improve soil structure.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, yellowing leaves, stunted growth, or leaf drop in response to extreme temperatures.
Cold Stress
Low temperatures slow growth and may cause leaf discoloration or dieback if prolonged below freezing.
Solution: Provide frost protection in winter; move potted plants indoors or to a sheltered location; use mulch to insulate roots.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can lead to leaf scorch, wilting, and reduced flowering due to water stress.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase watering frequency; use mulch to retain soil moisture.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check fertilizer label for NPK ratio; dilute correctly; apply during active growth; avoid contact with foliage.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer. Avoid fertilizing in fall and winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicCats may experience mild gastrointestinal symptoms if they consume Vicia pyrenaica seeds or pods. The alkaloids present can cause temporary discomfort but are not generally considered highly toxic to felines.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Slightly ToxicIn dogs, ingestion of Vicia pyrenaica seeds and pods may lead to mild gastrointestinal upset due to the presence of alkaloids. The effects are typically not life-threatening but can cause discomfort.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicVicia pyrenaica contains alkaloids that can cause mild gastrointestinal distress and other systemic effects if ingested in significant quantities. The physiological impact is generally limited to temporary discomfort.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Vicia pyrenaica toxic to pets?
A: Yes, it is mildly toxic to dogs and cats.
Q: Does Vicia pyrenaica attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and birds.
Q: What are the common problems with Vicia pyrenaica?
A: Common issues include yellow leaves, wilting, and leaf spots.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Fabaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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