Meadow Vetchling

Lathyrus pratensis

Physical Characteristics

Lathyrus pratensis is a PERENNIAL growing to 1.2 m (4ft). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 4. It is in flower from May to August, and the seeds ripen from July to September. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Bees. The plant is self-fertile. 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 Scandanavia south and east to N. Africa, Siberia and the Himalayas.

Habitats

Meadow; Hedgerow; Bog Garden;

Edible Uses

None known

Medicinal Uses

Resolvent The seeds are used as a resolvent in Spain[240].

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.