Lathyrus vernus


Lathyrus vernus Photographed by James Ellingboe. Copyright 2002. All rights reserved.
Photo: James Ellingboe
Lathyrus vernus is commonly called 'Spring Vetchling' and is in the pea family. This very tough perennial is one of springtime favorites. In a damp, mild spring we get a good two months of color out of these plants. It takes several years to bulk up from a four inch pot size. They are planted in a mixed woodland with a lot of winter sunlight (when the sun emerges!) Mostly found in the purple/lavender color range, one can occasionally find them in pale pink or blue. Seedlings do occur in a garden setting, but never enough to warrant concern. Foliage stays green and healthy through the growing season.