Family: Fabaceae
Author: Kellogg
Bibliography: Proc. Calif. Acad. Sci. 2: 150 (1863)
Year: 1863
Status: accepted
Rank: species
Genus: Lathyrus
Vegetable: False
Observations: W. Canada to N. Mexico
Description
The Nevada pea, known scientifically as Lathyrus lanszwertii, is a flowering plant belonging to the Fabaceae family. First described by Kellogg in a publication in the Proceedings of the California Academy of Sciences in 1863, this plant has captured the interest of botanists and plant enthusiasts alike.
Lathyrus lanszwertii is native to North America, with its range extending from Western Canada down through Northern Mexico. This broad geographical distribution allows it to thrive in a variety of habitats, adapting to the different environmental conditions found across this expansive area.
As a member of the Fabaceae family, the Nevada pea shares many characteristics with other legumes. These plants are known for their ability to fix nitrogen in the soil, a trait that not only benefits the plant itself but also improves soil health for other vegetation in the ecosystem. This mutualistic relationship with soil bacteria is a hallmark of the Fabaceae family, contributing to the sustainability of natural landscapes where Lathyrus lanszwertii is found.
The Nevada pea is an important species both ecologically and aesthetically. It typically produces blooms that are visually appealing, adding splashes of color to the regions it inhabits. These flowers also play a significant role in the life cycle of various pollinators, supporting biodiversity by providing a food source for insects such as bees and butterflies.
The resilience and adaptability of Lathyrus lanszwertii make it a valuable subject of study for botanists aiming to understand plant adaptation and survival strategies in different environments. Its presence across a wide range of altitudes and climates further underscores its ecological versatility.
In summary, the Nevada pea, or Lathyrus lanszwertii, is a vibrant and ecologically significant member of the Fabaceae family. First described in the 19th century, this plant continues to thrive from Canada to Mexico, contributing to soil health and supporting pollinator communities across its broad range.
Common Names
Eng: lanszwert’s vetchling, nevada pea
Fra: gesse de lanszwert
En: Nevada pea, Nevada Vetchling, Nevada peavine, Thickleaf peavine, Lanszwert’s vetchling
Fr: Gesse de Lanszwert
Synonyms
Distribution
- Arizona (native)
- British Columbia (native)
- California (native)
- Colorado (native)
- Idaho (native)
- Mexico Northeast (native)
- Mexico Northwest (native)
- Montana (native)
- Nevada (native)
- New Mexico (native)
- Oregon (native)
- Texas (native)
- Utah (native)
- Washington (native)
- Wyoming (native)
Additional Images
Flower
Taken Mar 13, 2022 by Monika Kopp (cc-by-sa)
Taken Mar 22, 2012 by EOL − Gary A. Monroe (cc-by-nc)
Taken Mar 22, 2012 by EOL − Gary A. Monroe (cc-by-nc)
Taken Dec 9, 2002 by EOL − Gary A. Monroe (cc-by-nc)
Leaf
Taken Mar 13, 2022 by Monika Kopp (cc-by-sa)
Habit
Taken Nov 21, 2002 by EOL − Gary A. Monroe (cc-by-nc)
Taken Mar 29, 2013 by EOL − Gary A. Monroe (cc-by-nc)
Taken Mar 29, 2013 by EOL − Gary A. Monroe (cc-by-nc)
Taken Apr 18, 2014 by EOL − Gary Griffith (cc-by-nc-sa)
Taken May 12, 2013 by EOL − Gary Griffith (cc-by-nc-sa)
Sources
- WFO (No URL)
- IPNI (No URL)
- POWO (http://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:30207537-2)
- GBIF (https://www.gbif.org/species/5356432)
- PlantNet (https://identify.plantnet.org/species/the-plant-list/Lathyrus lanszwertii Kellogg)
Specifications
Growth habit>: Vine, Forb/herb