Slenderstem Peavine, Marsh pea

Lathyrus palustris

Physical Characteristics

Lathyrus palustris is a PERENNIAL CLIMBER growing to 1.2 m (4ft). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 5. It is in flower from July to August. 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 cannot grow in the shade. It prefers moist or wet soil.

Distribution

Europe, including Britain, from Norway south and east to N. Spain, Siberia and Japan. E. N. America

Habitats

Bog Garden; Cultivated Beds;

Edible Uses

Edible Parts: Leaves Seed Edible Uses: Seed - cooked[105, 161, 179]. The fully grown seeds are shelled and cooked as a vegetable[257]. Some caution is advised, see the notes above on toxicity. Young leaves and stems - cooked[177].

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.