Bitter Vetch

Lathyrus linifolius montanus

Physical Characteristics

Lathyrus linifolius montanus is a PERENNIAL growing to 0.6 m (2ft). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 6. It is in flower from June to July, and the seeds ripen from August to September. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Bees. It can fix Nitrogen. Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils and prefers well-drained soil. Suitable pH: mildly acid and neutral soils. It can grow in semi-shade (light woodland) or no shade. It prefers moist soil.

Distribution

Most of Europe, including Britain, but absent in far north and rare in southeast.

Habitats

Woodland Garden Sunny Edge; Dappled Shade; Hedgerow;

Edible Uses

Edible Parts: Root Seed Edible Uses: Seed - cooked[2, 177]. Used as a vegetable, they are served in the same manner as sweet chestnuts[2]. Some caution is advised in the use of this seed, see the notes above on toxicity. Root - cooked[5, 61, 105]. Boiled or roasted, they have a sweet flavour and are very nutritious[2, 115].

Medicinal Uses

None known

Known Hazards

The seed contains a toxic amino-acid which, in large quantities, can cause a very serious disease of the nervous system known as 'lathyrism'. The seed is said to be perfectly safe and very nutritious in small quantities, but should not comprise more than 30% of the diet[65, 76].