Cyprus-Vetch

Lathyrus ochrus

Native to:
Albania, Algeria, Baleares, Canary Is., Corse, Cyprus, East Aegean Is., France, Greece, Italy, Kriti, Lebanon-Syria, Libya, Madeira, Morocco, NW. Balkan Pen., Palestine, Portugal, Sardegna, Sicilia, Spain, Tunisia, Türkiye, Türkiye-in-Europe

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Taxonomy

Division:
Magnoliophyta | - Flowering plants
Family:
Fabaceae
Genus:
Lathyrus
Species:
Lathyrus ochrus
USDA Symbol:
LAOC6

Growth Characteristics

Height:
100 cm
Light Requirements:
Full Sun
Drought Tolerance:
Medium
Bloom Months:
apr,may,jun
Bloom Colors:
yellow, pink

Garden & Ecology Notes

Wildlife Value:
bees, butterflies

Soil Requirements

Soil Type:
well-drained, calcareous, sandy soil
pH:
6.0 - 8.0 (neutral to slightly alkaline)
Drainage:
excellent drainage required
Moisture:
dry to moderate
Notes:
native to Mediterranean regions; prefers limestone-rich soils

Propagation & Germination

Stratification:
Cold/moist stratification required — 10–20 days
Scarification:
Seed coat scarification required before sowing
Germination Time:
14–30 days
Notes:
Seeds benefit from scarification (nicking or hot water treatment) followed by cold stratification for 10-20 days to break dormancy.