Lathyrus pratensis
L.
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Summary
Source: WikipediaLathyrus pratensis or meadow vetchling, yellow pea, meadow pea and meadow pea-vine, is a perennial legume that grows to 1.2 m in height. The hermaphrodite flowers are pollinated by bees. As a perennial, this plant reproduces itself over many years, spreading out from the point it was introduced, especially in damp grassy areas. This plant has been propagated in the past as animal fodder. Lathyrus pratensis is also a host plant for ovipositioning of the wood white butterfly (Leptidea sinapis).
Description
A herb. It keeps growing from year to year. It is a scrambling plant and forms dense masses. The leaves have long stalks and 2 grey-green sword shaped leaflets. These are 1-2.5 cm long and have tendrils. The flowers are yellow. There are 5-12 in a group on long stalks. The pods are 3-4 cm long.
Edible Uses
None known
Traditional Uses
The young leaves and stems are eaten in salads and also fried.
This uses section is brief — help expand it
Medicinal Uses
The seeds are used as a resolvent in Spain.
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). Great caution is advised.
Distribution
It is a temperate plant.
Where It Grows
Armenia, Asia, Britain, Caucasus, Central Asia, Europe, Ireland, Luxembourg, Mongolia, Nepal, Pakistan, Tajikistan,
Cultivation
An easily grown plant, succeeding in any moderately good garden soil but preferring a position in full sun. Succeeds on wet soils. This species has a symbiotic relationship with certain soil bacteria, these bacteria form nodules on the roots and fix atmospheric nitrogen. Some of this nitrogen is utilized by the growing plant but some can also be used by other plants growing nearby.
Propagation
Pre-soak seed for 24 hours in warm water, then sow in early spring in a cold frame. Prick seedlings out into individual pots once large enough to handle and plant out in summer. With sufficient seed, sow in situ in mid spring. Divide in spring, taking care as the plant may not transplant well.
Other Uses
The plant is said to repel mice.
Other Information
It is sold in local markets.
Also Known As
Chilo, Tchpruk
References (4)
- Irving, M., 2009, The Forager Handbook, A Guide to the Edible Plants of Britain. Ebury Press p 234
- Jha, P. K., et al, 1996, Plant genetic resources of Nepal: A guide for plant breeders of agricultural, horticultural and forestry crops. Euphytica 87:189-210
- Nanagulyan, S., et al, 2020, Wild plants and fungi sold in the markets of Yerevan (Armenia). Journal of Ethnobiology and Ethnomedicine 16:26
- Urgamal, M., Oyuntsetseg, B., Nyambayar, D. & Dulamsuren, Ch. 2014. Conspectus of the vascular plants of Mongolia. (Editors: Sanchir, Ch. & Jamsran, Ts.). Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia. “Admon“ Press. 334pp. (p. 121-143).
