Spring Vetchling Lathyrus vernus 'Alboroseus'
ABOUT
The plant known commonly as Spring Vetchling 'Alboroseus' boasts an ensemble of attractive features that make it a favoured addition to many gardens. It first greets the eye with its foliage, which is composed of delicate, green leaflets arranged in pairs along slender, branching stems. These leaves can sometimes take on a blue-green hue, providing a pleasant, cool-toned backdrop for the flowers. As its name implies, the Spring Vetchling 'Alboroseus' reveals its true splendor during the springtime. Its blossoms are bicolored, presenting a soft and charming display. The flowers demonstrate a delicate graduation of color, ranging from white to various shades of pink, with the petals sometimes exhibiting a subtle vein-like patterning that adds depth and intricacy to their appearance. The blooms are shaped like small butterflies, a trait characteristic of the family to which 'Alboroseus' belongs. These flowers cluster at the top of the stems, creating an enchanting, fairy-like effect as they seemingly float above the plant's foliage. This variety, with its alluring flowers and graceful foliage, makes an excellent choice for gardeners looking to introduce a touch of early-season color to their beds and borders. As the season progresses, the blooms give way to seed pods, which also carry a certain ornamental appeal. In conclusion, the Spring Vetchling 'Alboroseus' is a plant that captivates with its stunning early bloom and promises to bring a tranquil beauty to any setting where it takes root.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Fabaceae
Synonyms
Spring Vetchling, Spring Pea, Eternal Pea
Common names
Lathyrus vernus 'Alboroseus'.
ToxicityTo humans
The plant commonly known as Spring Vetch (Lathyrus vernus 'Alboroseus') is considered to be mildly toxic to humans if ingested. It contains a compound called beta-aminopropionitrile, which can interfere with the body's ability to properly metabolize certain amino acids. Consuming large amounts of this plant can lead to a condition known as lathyrism, which can cause weakness and potentially permanent paralysis in the lower limbs, as well as neurotoxicity. It is recommended to avoid consuming any part of the Spring Vetch to prevent possible poisoning, and in case of ingestion, medical advice should be sought.
To pets
The plant known as Spring Vetch (Lathyrus vernus 'Alboroseus') can also be toxic to pets, such as dogs and cats, if ingested. Similar to humans, the toxicity is due to the presence of the compound beta-aminopropionitrile. Symptoms of intoxication in pets may include vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, weakness, tremors, and convulsions. Chronic ingestion can lead to more serious conditions such as neurological disorders, which could result in paralysis. If you suspect your pet has ingested Spring Vetch, contact your veterinarian immediately. It's advisable to prevent pets from having access to this plant.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Pink
Height
1 foot 3-8 inches (40-50 cm)
Spread
1 foot 3-8 inches (40-50 cm)
Plant type
Herb
Hardiness zones
5
Native area
Europe
Benefits
General Benefits- Early Spring Bloomer: Provides garden interest early in the season when few other plants are flowering.
- Attractive Flowers: The plant has pink and white bicolor blooms that add aesthetic beauty to garden spaces.
- Low Maintenance: Spring vetchling is generally easy to care for with minimal needs once established.
- Drought Tolerant: Once established, it can tolerate periods of dryness, reducing the need for frequent watering.
- Cold Hardy: It is capable of surviving in colder climates, making it a good choice for gardens in temperate zones.
- Non-Invasive: Unlike some legumes, spring vetchling does not aggressively spread, making it a good garden or border plant without the risk of overtaking other species.
- Pollinator Friendly: Attracts bees and other pollinators that are essential for the health of the garden and the environment.
- Deer Resistant: Less prone to deer damage, which can be beneficial in areas where deer predation is a problem.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Photography subject: Spring vetchling's early blooms and unique color variations make it an attractive subject for nature photographers and botanical illustrators.
- Fairy gardens: Due to its compact size and attractive flowers, spring vetchling can be included in fairy garden designs to add a touch of magic and color.
- Textile dye: Historically, plants have been used for dyes; while not common, the petals of spring vetchling could potentially be used to create natural dyes for fabrics.
- Educational tool: Spring vetchling can be used in educational settings to teach children about plant biology, especially the process of pollination and the life cycle of perennial plants.
- Seasonal marker: Gardeners and naturalists might use the blooming period of spring vetchling as a phenological indicator to mark the transition from winter to spring.
- Wedding decor: Its springtime charm can make spring vetchling a candidate for use in rustic or woodland-themed wedding arrangements.
- Artistic inspiration: Artists may use spring vetchling as a muse, capturing its form and color in various mediums, from watercolor to sculpture.
- Floral arrangements: While not a traditional cut flower, spring vetchling can be used in short-lived spring floral arrangements where its delicate blooms add softness and depth.
- Garden border accent: With its low-growing habit, spring vetchling can be used to edge garden paths or define garden beds when planted in groups.
- Companion planting: Spring vetchling may be used as a companion plant in gardens, complementing early spring bulbs like crocuses or daffodils with its foliage and flowers.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Spring Vetch is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Spring Vetch is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Blissful Pleasure: Lathyrus vernus 'Alboroseus', commonly known as spring vetchling, can signify blissful pleasure due to its sweet-scented flowers and early bloom, heralding the joy of spring.
- Youthful Innocence: The tender nature of the spring vetchling's foliage and delicate flowers often symbolizes the freshness and innocence of youth.
- New Beginnings: As an early bloomer, the spring vetchling represents new beginnings and the hope that comes with the onset of spring after a long winter.
- Everlasting Bonds: Vetchlings, as a group, may signify long-lasting connections, referring to the hardy nature of these plants and their ability to thrive in different conditions.
WaterSpring Vetchling prefers consistently moist but not waterlogged soil. Water deeply once a week, providing about 1 gallon of water per plant, especially during dry spells. In hotter climates or during particularly dry seasons, you may need to water twice a week. Always check the soil moisture before watering; if the top inch of soil is dry, it's time to water. Reduce watering in the fall as the plant goes dormant, and be cautious of overwatering to prevent root rot.
LightSpring Vetchling thrives in partial shade to dappled sunlight conditions. It's best positioned in a spot that receives morning sun and is protected from the intense afternoon heat. This plant can tolerate full sun in cooler climates, but in warmer regions, it will need protection from the harsh midday sun. A location under the canopy of deciduous trees provides an ideal light environment for this perennial.
TemperatureSpring Vetchling grows best in temperatures between 60°F to 70°F but can tolerate a range down to 20°F and up to 80°F. Avoid exposing the plant to temperatures below 20°F, as this can severely damage or kill it. During the active growing season, maintaining a temperature within the ideal range will promote healthy growth and flowering.
PruningTo maintain the shape and health of Spring Vetchling, light pruning can be done after flowering to remove spent blooms and encourage a second bloom. Pruning once a year is usually enough. The best time for pruning is late spring or early summer, following the plant's natural flowering cycle. This will allow time for new growth to mature and harden off before the onset of winter.
CleaningAs needed
SoilSpring Vetch 'Alboroseus' thrives in well-draining soil enriched with organic matter. A mixture of garden soil, peat, and perlite or sand in equal parts creates an ideal environment. It prefers a slightly acidic to neutral pH (6.0-7.0).
RepottingSpring Vetch 'Alboroseus' generally does not require frequent repotting. It should be repotted once every 2-3 years, or when it outgrows its current container.
Humidity & MistingSpring Vetch 'Alboroseus' prefers moderate humidity levels, consistent with typical outdoor garden conditions. It does not require special humidity adjustments when grown in its natural outdoor habitat.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Ensure bright light, cool temps, and water when topsoil dries.
Outdoor
Plant in part shade, water moderately, protect from strong winds.
Hardiness zone
4-8 USDA
Life cycleLathyrus vernus 'Alboroseus', also known as spring vetchling, begins its life cycle as a seed, which upon finding suitable conditions, germinates and develops into a young seedling. The seedling grows by producing leaves and a root system, eventually forming a mature plant with a characteristic bushy habit. During spring, it enters a flowering stage, producing pink and white bicolored blossoms that attract pollinators. After pollination, these flowers develop into pods, which contain the seeds. As the pods mature, they eventually dry and release the seeds into the environment, where they can start a new cycle. In winter, the above-ground parts of the plant die back, while the roots remain dormant until the next growing season.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring
The most popular method for propagating Lathyrus vernus 'Alboroseus', commonly known as Spring Vetchling or Spring Pea, is by seed. Sowing should be done in the fall, directly outdoors, where they will undergo natural stratification during the winter months. Those who prefer indoor sowing can do so by nicking or gently sanding the seed coat before sowing to improve water absorption and then stratifying the seeds by chilling them in the refrigerator at approximately 35-39 degrees Fahrenheit (1.7-3.9 degrees Celsius) for 2 to 4 weeks. Sow the stratified seeds in pots using well-draining soil mix, placing them about an inch (2.54 centimeters) deep, and keep the soil consistently moist until germination occurs. Once germinated and after the danger of frost has passed, seedlings can be transplanted outdoors to a location with partial shade or full sun and well-draining soil.
