Lathyrus venosus, commonly known as Veiny Pea is a native perennial vine-like wildflower found in prairies, open woodlands, thickets, and along roadsides throughout Illinois. It thrives in full sun to partial shade and prefers well-drained soils, often flourishing in dry to moderately moist conditions.
This trailing or sprawling plant typically grows 1 to 3 feet long and features compound leaves with several pairs of oval leaflets and tendrils at the tips, which help it climb or spread over nearby vegetation. In late spring to early summer, it produces showy clusters of pea-like flowers that range in color from pinkish-purple to rose. The flowers attract native bees, butterflies, and other pollinators, while the plant also supports various insect larvae.
For Illinois native plant enthusiasts, Lathyrus venosus is a unique and ecologically valuable addition to native meadows, woodland edges, and prairie gardens. It adds a soft, trailing texture and vibrant seasonal color, and pairs well with other low to medium-height natives like Wild Quinine, Hoary Vervain, and Little Bluestem. As a legume, it also helps enrich the soil by fixing nitrogen.
Lathyrus venosus, commonly known as Veiny Pea is a native perennial vine-like wildflower found in prairies, open woodlands, thickets, and along roadsides throughout Illinois. It thrives in full sun to partial shade and prefers well-drained soils, often flourishing in dry to moderately moist conditions.
This trailing or sprawling plant typically grows 1 to 3 feet long and features compound leaves with several pairs of oval leaflets and tendrils at the tips, which help it climb or spread over nearby vegetation. In late spring to early summer, it produces showy clusters of pea-like flowers that range in color from pinkish-purple to rose. The flowers attract native bees, butterflies, and other pollinators, while the plant also supports various insect larvae.
For Illinois native plant enthusiasts, Lathyrus venosus is a unique and ecologically valuable addition to native meadows, woodland edges, and prairie gardens. It adds a soft, trailing texture and vibrant seasonal color, and pairs well with other low to medium-height natives like Wild Quinine, Hoary Vervain, and Little Bluestem. As a legume, it also helps enrich the soil by fixing nitrogen.
Bloom: late spring to early summer
Habitats: dry open woods; thickets
Lifespan: perennial
Moisture: moist to slightly dry
Plant type (height): herbaceous vine (1 to 3 feet)
Requirements: full sun to partial sun
Soil: sandy
