Everlasting Pea
Lathyrus latifolius
| Common Name: | Everlasting pea |
| Scientific Name: | Lathyrus latifolius |
| Family: | Leguminosae |
| Growth Form: | Herbaceous vine |
| Native Range: | Europe |
| Alien Range: | Indiana to New England, south to |
| Introduction: | The everlasting pea was introduced as an ornamental plant because of its beautiful flowers. It can spread vegetatively or by seeding itself. |
| Description: | ·Leaves: Alternate, compound, with 2 ovate leaflets 5 cm (2 in.) long. 5 cm (2 in.) long petiole. Branched tendril between the leaflets.
·Stem: Hairless, strongly winged. ·Flowers: Purplish-pink color. 2 cm (1 in.)in diameter. 5 petals, 5 part calyx. No scent. Blooms in summer. ·Fruit: Immature seedpod is green, becomes brown as it matures. Hairless, flat, 5 cm (2 in.) long, 1 cm (.5 in) wide. Seeds dark and oblong. |
| Threats: | The everlasting pea does not cause harm in areas where it has naturalized. |
| Fun Facts: | Everlasting pea plants are pollinated by bumblebees. |
English ivy on a tree
Leaf
English ivy taking over a tree
Plant
Flower
(c) Dan L. Perlman ecolibrary.org
Fruit