Water
Water regularly, especially during establishment and dry periods. Allow the soil to dry out slightly between waterings. Avoid waterlogging, as this can lead to root rot.
Reduce watering in cooler months when growth slows.
Also known as Rigid Peavine · Stiff Peavine
Lathyrus rigidus, the Stiff Pea, is an herbaceous perennial legume native to western North America, known for its upright growth and attractive flowers.
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Full Sun
100% intensity
Prefers at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily.
Moderate
50% intensity
Allow soil to dry slightly between waterings.
Well-drained
50% intensity
Moderate
50% intensity
Prefers temperatures between 15-25°C.
Outdoor
50% intensity
Low
25% intensity
Minimal feeding required, use balanced fertilizer lightly in spring.
Safety information from plant toxicity data
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Toxic for humans | No 0/5 intensity |
| Toxic for pets | No 0/5 intensity |
| Edible | No |
Non-toxic
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Water regularly, especially during establishment and dry periods. Allow the soil to dry out slightly between waterings. Avoid waterlogging, as this can lead to root rot.
Reduce watering in cooler months when growth slows.
Pruning is typically not required for Lathyrus rigidus. Deadheading spent flowers can encourage further blooming and maintain a tidier appearance.
If the plant becomes overgrown or leggy, light trimming in late winter or early spring can help maintain shape.
Propagate Lathyrus rigidus by seed. Sow seeds in early spring or autumn. Scarify the seed coat or soak seeds in warm water for 24 hours to improve germination rates.
Young plants can be transplanted when large enough to handle.
Repotting is rarely necessary for Lathyrus rigidus as it is often grown as an annual or short-lived perennial.
If grown in a container and root-bound, repot into a slightly larger container in spring using well-draining soil. Ensure good drainage in the new pot.
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Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of Stiff Pea (Lathyrus rigidus)
Where Stiff Pea (Lathyrus rigidus) is found

Density
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Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Division | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Fabales |
| Family | Fabaceae |
| Genus | Lathyrus |
| Species | Lathyrus rigidus |
Similar in genus Lathyrus
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data