3 pictures - click to enlarge
Lathyrus odoratus
Common name
Sweet Pea
Botanical name
Lathyrus odoratus
Details
Fast-growing, annual herb native only to southwest Italy and Sicily, but widely introduced as an ornamental. The ability of this species to tolerate a wide range of habitats, including disturbed areas, roadsides (in North Canterbury), secondary forests, as well as natural forests, means that it has the potential to spread much further than it has to date. This species has a climbing or sprawling habit, and consequently, has the capability to displace native species.
Currently it is considered invasive in New Zealand and ‘possibly invasive’ in the Dominican Republic. However, in its native range it is listed as Near Threatened, as it is subject to wild collection threat due to its commercial value.
Currently it is considered invasive in New Zealand and ‘possibly invasive’ in the Dominican Republic. However, in its native range it is listed as Near Threatened, as it is subject to wild collection threat due to its commercial value.
Forest layer
vertical
Diameter
1.00
Flowers
Pink, Purple
Drought tolerance
Nitrogen fixer
Related
Nitrogen fixing plant species suited to temperate climate such as North Canterbury New Zealand
Nitrogen is an essential element for plant growth. Certain plants have a useful ability to capture nitrogen from the atmosphere. This is often achieved through symbiotic relationship with fungi in the root zone. Being able access unlimited nitrogen allows these plants to grow quickly while also making some available to surrounding plants. The practical reality is that including nitrogen fixing plants of various shapes and sizes amongst other productive plantings improves overall health, vigour and fertility,