Stiff pea facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Stiff pea |
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| Scientific classification | |
| Genus: |
Lathyrus
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| Species: |
rigidus
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The stiff pea (scientific name: Lathyrus rigidus) is a type of wild pea plant. It gets its common name 'stiff pea' because of its sturdy, upright stems. This plant is found naturally in the western United States, especially around the Modoc Plateau area. It grows in places like sagebrush scrub and other similar environments.
What is the Stiff Pea?
The stiff pea is a perennial herb, which means it lives for more than two years. It grows in a clump with short, straight stems. This plant is a member of the pea family, known for its unique flowers and seed pods.
How Does the Stiff Pea Look?
The leaves of the stiff pea are made up of several pairs of smaller leaflets. Each leaflet is about 1 to 3 centimeters long. The plant produces beautiful flowers in a cluster called an inflorescence. These clusters are dense and usually have 2 to 5 flowers. Each flower is about 2 centimeters long and can be white or pink. After the flowers bloom, the plant forms a fruit. This fruit is a smooth, hairless legume pod, which is typical for pea plants.
Where Does the Stiff Pea Grow?
The stiff pea is native to a specific part of the western United States. You can find it in the Modoc Plateau and nearby regions. This area stretches from northeastern California into Idaho. It thrives in habitats like sagebrush scrub, which are dry, open areas with many shrubs. It is also found in other similar environments across its native range, including parts of Nevada and Oregon.
