White Sweet Pea Lathyrus latifolius 'Albus'

Names

• Family

  Fabaceae.

• Synonyms

  White Perennial Pea, White Sweet Pea, Everlasting Pea.

• Common names

  Lathyrus latifolius.

Toxicity

• To humans

  The plant commonly known as perennial pea is not considered highly toxic to humans. However, it may contain some level of potentially harmful compounds similar to other members of the Lathyrus genus, which can cause lathyrism if eaten in large quantities. Lathyrism is a condition resulting from eating large amounts of certain Lathyrus seeds, leading to symptoms such as muscle weakness, paralysis, and in severe cases, respiratory issues. Although Lathyrus latifolius 'Albus' is primarily an ornamental plant and its seeds are not commonly consumed, it is still advisable to avoid ingesting any part of the plant to prevent potential adverse health effects.

• To pets

  Perennial pea can be toxic to pets if ingested. It contains amino acid-like compounds such as ODAP (β-N-oxalyl-L-α,β-diaminopropionic acid) that may cause lathyrism in animals. Symptoms of lathyrism in pets include lethargy, lack of coordination, muscular weakness, and in severe cases, paralysis. Chronic ingestion can lead to more serious health issues, including irreversible paralysis. It is essential to prevent pets from ingesting perennial pea and to seek veterinary attention if you suspect poisoning.

Characteristics

• Life cycle

  Perennials

• Foliage type

  Deciduous

• Color of leaves

  Green

• Flower color

  White

• Height

  6-8 feet [1.8-2.4 meters]

• Spread

  2-3 feet [0.6-0.9 meters]

• Plant type

  Climber

• Hardiness zones

  4-8

• Native area

  Europe

General Benefits

• Ornamental Appeal: Lathyrus latifolius 'Albus', commonly known as the White Sweet Pea, has attractive white flowers that can enhance the visual appeal of gardens and landscapes.
• Perennial Growth: Being a perennial plant, it returns year after year, reducing the need for replanting and offering long-term vegetation.
• Pollinator Friendly: White Sweet Pea attracts bees and butterflies, which are crucial for pollinating other plants and supporting local ecosystems.
• Vertical Interest: Its climbing habit makes it ideal for growing on trellises, fences, and other vertical surfaces, adding dimension to garden spaces.
• Low Maintenance: Once established, White Sweet Pea requires minimal care, apart from occasional watering and pruning, making it suitable for low-maintenance gardens.
• Erosion Control: Its root system helps stabilize soil and prevent erosion on slopes and banks.
• Privacy Screening: The dense foliage provides a lush green screen, which can be used to create private outdoor areas or hide unsightly views.
• Drought Tolerance: After establishment, the plant is relatively drought-tolerant, making it suitable for xeriscaping and reducing the need for supplemental watering.
• Easy Propagation: It can be easily propagated from seeds or cuttings, facilitating the spread and sharing of the plant.

Medical Properties

This plant is not used for medical purposes.

Air-purifying Qualities

This plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.

Other Uses

• Lathyrus latifolius 'Albus', commonly known as the perennial pea, can be used as a natural dye source, providing a range of colors for textiles depending on the mordants used.
• Due to its rapid growth and dense foliage, the perennial pea can be planted to stabilize soil and prevent erosion on slopes or banks.
• The vine can be used in floral arrangements, adding a rustic charm to bouquets with its long stems and delicate white flowers.
• The sturdy stems of the perennial pea can be woven into baskets or other artisanal crafts, showcasing its flexibility and strength when dried.
• The abundant growth of this plant can provide a natural screen for privacy when grown along fences or trellises in residential areas.
• Its twining habit makes it suitable for covering unsightly structures, such as old sheds or utility poles, effectively blending them into the garden landscape.
• In rural settings, the plant can be used to provide temporary shelter for small wildlife, serving as a hospitable environment for nesting or protection from predators.
• The perennial pea's vines can be used as natural binding material in garden staking, offering an eco-friendly alternative to synthetic ties.
• When dried, the seed pods can be utilized in decorative crafts, such as in wreaths or as part of a dried flower arrangement.
• Edible parts of certain varieties, not specifically the 'Albus', can be added to salads or cooked as a green vegetable, but caution is advised due to potential toxicity issues in this species.

Feng Shui

The Everlasting Pea is not used in Feng Shui practice.

Zodiac Sign Compitability

The Everlasting Pea is not used in astrology practice.

Plant Symbolism

• Everlasting Bonds: As with many species in the pea family, the Perennial Sweet Pea is often associated with lasting connections and deep friendship, symbolizing everlasting bonds that stand the test of time.
• Bliss and Pleasure: The sweet fragrance and colorful blossoms of the Perennial Sweet Pea are reminiscent of the joys and simple pleasures in life.
• Cherished Memories: The plant's enduring nature and perennial growth symbolize cherished memories that are preserved over years, much like the perennial qualities of this plant indicate lasting presence.
• Departure or Goodbye: In some cultural contexts, the Perennial Sweet Pea may symbolize a farewell or an acknowledgment of an impending departure, possibly because flowers are often given as a parting gift.
• Delicate Pleasures: Its delicate appearance can signify the appreciation of beauty and the enjoyment of delicate pleasures in life.