Lathyrus palustris (Marsh Vetchling)

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Detailed Information

Flower:

Clusters of 2 to 6 flowers at the end of long naked stems that arise from the leaf axils. Individual flowers are ¾ inch long and a typical shape for a member of the pea family. Flower color varies from deep pink to purple to blue. A 2-tone purple and white or purple and blue flower is not unusual.

Leaves and stem:

Leaves are compound in 2 to 4 pairs; attachment is alternate with the leaflets attached oppositely. Each leaflet is generally oval, up to 2½ inches long and ½ inch wide, though they can range from short and wide to long and narrow. There is a tendril at the end of the leaf stem that entwines around other plants. The main stem is usually, but not always, “winged”, making it look and feel ribbon-like.

More photos

• March Vetchling growing over a stream
• pink Marsh Vetchling flowers

Photos taken at Long Lake Regional Park, New Brighton, MN June 2007

Comments

Have you seen this plant in Minnesota, or have any other comments about it?