Everlasting Pea
Lathyrus sylvestris (LATH-ih-rus sil-VESS-tris)
The Flat Pea is a long-lived, herbaceous perennial, flowering vine in the bean family with a scrambling habit. The plant is native to Great Britain and Europe west to Siberia and has been introduced into Canada and the northern United States, although it can be found as far south as Georgia. The plant has a winged stem, narrow green leaves, purple pea-like flowers in elongated clusters that bloom in early summer, and a flattened pod. It will climb to a height of 7 feet if supported or grow to height of 30 inches without support. Once established, he plants will often form a mat as they spread by rhizomes, and it can become weedy or invasive and prevent the establishment of other plants if not properly managed. The Flat Pea does best in well-drained soil and full sun to partial shade. The Flat Pea tolerates most soil types, even severely disturbed, acidic, soil and is drought tolerant. Once established, the plant requires little in the way of maintenance. It is edible in small quantities; however, when eaten in large quantities, it can cause a serious disease of the nervous system known as 'lathyrism'. It also contains an acid that can be toxic to livestock not acclimated to it. Flat Pea requires the incorporation of the seed into the soil for propagation; broadcasting the seed will not succeed unless the seed is subsequently covered with soil. It is also best to plant Flat Pea with a grass, such as tall fescue, to provide cover over the 2 to 3 years needed to establish itself. As a vine, the Flat Pea can spread up to 79 inches and will cling to any supporting structure with tendrils. Like most pea plants, the Flat Pea will fix nitrogen in the soil. The Flat Pea is found on embankments and waste ground where it uses its tendrils to scramble over plants, shrubs and the lower branches of trees. This trait, plus its tolerance of poor and acidic soil, makes it useful in erosion control and efforts to improve marginal soil. Diseases, Insect Pests, and Other Plant Problems: No known diseases or insect pests. The plant can spread easily and can become weedy. More information on Lathyrus .
Source: NC State Extension Gardener Plant Toolbox ↗ NC State Extension Gardener Plant Toolbox, 61 attributes.
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