Perennial peavine (Lathyrus latifolius)
ODA rating:B
Other common names
everlasting peavine, everlasting-pea, perennial pea, perennial sweetpea
Description
Perennial peavine is a widely established European native identified in every state except Florida and North Dakota. Annual growth emerges from perennial roots each spring growing to a length of 2-7 feet. Stems are broadly winged with long, well developed tendrils. Pea-like flowers are one inch long and can be white, red or pink. Leaflets are well-developed stipules that are 1-2 inches long. Growth becomes very dense often completely covering all other low-growing vegetation. Vines are often found growing up into trees and shrubs. Seeds are brown colored, produced in pods and are 2/3 smaller than the common edible garden pea. This plant occupies a wide range of climactic conditions thriving in the warm wet environment of the Pacific Northwest to the cold dry conditions of the Rocky Mountain States. Little information has been published on this species and it is often overlooked as an invader. Though not listed in many western states as noxious, Idaho and Wyoming are now including it into their control plans as additional infestations appear.
Impacts
Perennial peavine is increasingly a problem in Western Oregon on rights-of-way, forested regions and natural areas. In small patches it does provide a good food source for upland game birds and other wildlife but as infestations increase in size, large areas are smothered and native plant cover reduced. Increased awareness and treatment are critical at this time to prevent further encroachment into forested areas.
Click on image to view larger photo. | | Images courtesy of Glenn Miller & Dan Sharratt, Oregon Dept. of Agriculture
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If images are downloaded and used from the ODA web site please be sure to credit the photographer.
Introduction
Perennial peavine is a widely established European native identified in every state except Florida and North Dakota. This plant was sold in wildflower mixes it has been used in the past for erosion control, restoration and flower plantings
Distribution in Oregon
Perennial peavine is increasingly a problem in Western Oregon on rights-of-way, forested regions and natural areas. Sites have been identified on several west side National Forests and BLM Districts. Baker County has the first confirmed case of a large infestation in a ponderosa pine forest.
Biological controls
Biological control agents are not available at this time for this plant.
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