Lathyrus davidii

Physical Characteristics

Lathyrus davidii is a PERENNIAL growing to 1.2 m (4ft). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 6. It is in flower from July to August, and the seeds ripen from August to September. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Insects. It can fix Nitrogen. Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils. It can grow in semi-shade (light woodland) or no shade. It prefers moist soil.

Distribution

E. Asia - northern China, Japan, Korea, Manchuria, Russia.

Habitats

Woodland Garden Sunny Edge; Dappled Shade;

Edible Uses

Edible Parts: Flowers Leaves Seed Seedpod Edible Uses: Seed - cooked[105, 177]. Some caution is advised, see the notes above on toxicity. Young seedpod - cooked[105, 177]. Young plant, including the inflorescence - cooked and used as a potherb or added to soups etc[105, 177, 183].

Medicinal Uses

None known

Known Hazards

Although no records of toxicity have been found for this plant, the seed of some species in this genus contain a toxic amino acid that can cause a severe disease of the nervous system known as 'lathyrism' if they are eaten in large amounts (although small quantities are said to be nutritious)[65, 76]. Great caution is advised.