Meadow Vetchling

(Lathyrus pratensis)

Meadow Vetchling (Lathyrus pratensis)

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Estimated Native Range
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Summary

Lathyrus pratensis, commonly known as Meadow Vetchling, Yellow Pea, or Meadow Pea-vine, is a perennial herbaceous legume native to a variety of habitats including meadows, pastures, grassy road verges, and open woodlands across Europe and temperate Asia. It typically grows up to 4 feet in height and features tendrils that allow it to climb neighboring vegetation. The plant produces bright yellow, pea-like flowers from late spring to mid-summer, which are highly attractive to bees and other pollinators. Following flowering, it forms long, black seed pods.

Meadow Vetchling is valued for its nitrogen-fixing abilities, which improve soil fertility, and its vibrant yellow flowers that add color to wildflower meadows and informal garden settings. It is also used in agriculture as a forage plant for livestock. In cultivation, it prefers full sun to partial shade and thrives in moist, well-drained soils. While generally low-maintenance, it can become invasive if not managed properly.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

  • Plant Type: Herb, Vine
  • Height: 1-2 feet
  • Width: 1-3 feet
  • Growth Rate: Moderate
  • Flower Color: Yellow
  • Flowering Season: Spring, Summer
  • Leaf Retention: Deciduous

Growth Requirements

  • Sun: Full Sun
  • Water: Medium
  • Drainage: Medium

Common Uses

Low Maintenance

Natural Habitat

Native to meadows, pastures, grassy road verges, and open woodlands across Europe and temperate Asia

Other Names

Common Names: Meadow Vetchling, Yellow Pea, Meadow Peavine, Yellow Vetchling, Ervilhaca-Do-Campo

Scientific Names: , Lathyrus pratensis, Lathyrus cashmericus, Lathyrus cashmericus, Lathyrus denudatus, Lathyrus lusseri, Lathyrus lusseri, Lathyrus pratensis f. pallidiflorus, Lathyrus pratensis f. pallidiflorus, Lathyrus pratensis f. sepium

GBIF Accepted Name: