Meadow Pea
Lathyrus pratensis
Also listed as Orobus pratensis, Lathyrus cashmericus
Also known as Meadow Vetchling, Yellow Vetchling, Meadow Peavine
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A native European climbing or sprawling perennial with delicate yellow flowers and compound leaves, commonly found in meadows and grasslands. Attractive to pollinators and useful for naturalizing in sunny areas.
Why grow it
Meadow pea offers reliable pollinator attraction with minimal fertility requirements compared to many ornamental legumes, making it useful for low-input grassland restoration. Its nitrogen-fixing capacity provides ecological value in meadow settings, while the delicate yellow flowers add visual interest without requiring deadheading or intensive management. Unlike some climbing peas, it tolerates poor soils well, which can be advantageous when naturalizing in marginal areas.
Watch out for
In areas with adequate moisture, meadow pea can spread vigorously through both seed and rhizomes, potentially outcompeting slower-establishing species in small plantings. The plant performs best in full sun and well-drained conditions; in partial shade or heavy clay soils, growth tends toward sparse flowering and weak vine development, reducing its ornamental value.
Overview
- Form
- Growth Rate
- Size
- Dormancy
- Family
- Fabaceae
Native Range
Europe
Seasonality
Bloom Season
Season of Interest
Herb
Soft non-woody plants of the field layer.
Succession Role
Tolerances & Soil
Establishment & Care
- Establishment
- Maintenance
- Propagation
A native European climbing or sprawling perennial with delicate yellow flowers and compound leaves, commonly found in meadows and grasslands. Attractive to pollinators and useful for naturalizing in sunny areas.
Climate Match for your location
See how well Meadow Pea grows in your area.
Enter your ZIP code and we'll show you how this plant fits your local climate.
Why grow it
Meadow pea offers reliable pollinator attraction with minimal fertility requirements compared to many ornamental legumes, making it useful for low-input grassland restoration. Its nitrogen-fixing capacity provides ecological value in meadow settings, while the delicate yellow flowers add visual interest without requiring deadheading or intensive management. Unlike some climbing peas, it tolerates poor soils well, which can be advantageous when naturalizing in marginal areas.
Watch out for
In areas with adequate moisture, meadow pea can spread vigorously through both seed and rhizomes, potentially outcompeting slower-establishing species in small plantings. The plant performs best in full sun and well-drained conditions; in partial shade or heavy clay soils, growth tends toward sparse flowering and weak vine development, reducing its ornamental value.
Overview
- Form
- Growth Rate
- Size
- Dormancy
- Family
- Fabaceae
Native Range
Europe
Seasonality
Bloom Season
Season of Interest
Herb
Soft non-woody plants of the field layer.
Succession Role
Tolerances & Soil
Establishment & Care
- Establishment
- Maintenance
- Propagation
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